Aston Villa target Nico Williams could shun interest from Unai Emery’s side and sign a new deal at Athletic Bilbao, according to a report.
The 20-year-old is one of a number of wingers targeted by Emery and Monchi as the Villains prepare to return to European football, but it seems they will have to look elsewhere as the Spaniard now appears closer to extending his contract at San Mames.
Journalist Ryan Taylor has told GIVEMESPORT that Williams is not fully convinced by a move to Villa Park and that he may choose to remain with Ernesto Valverde’s side. However, this should not deter Villa from having ambitious targets.
Who else could Villa target?
The Spain international was eyed up for his speed, skill and end product which has earned him plaudits in La Liga, but there are other options Villa can turn to if they cannot land Williams.
Emery can return to his former club and target one of Samuel Chukwueze or Arnaut Danjuma as wide options. Chukwueze is currently the subject of interest from AC Milan, but he may be set to leave Villarreal as he has just one year remaining on his contract.
Danjuma meanwhile, is keen on a move despite a failed loan at Tottenham Hotspur in the second half of last season, and Emery, who originally signed him at Villarreal, could reunite with the versatile forward.
Qualification for Europe has meant that Villa have a list of ambitious targets, and whilst all of them may not be attainable, like Williams, there should still be confidence that Emery and Monchi will find a solution in the market.
Monchi has been renowned for his work at Sevilla in finding gems in the transfer market, and the new Villa head of football operations has been brought in to help shape the Villa squad for the future.
