Athletic Bilbao are confident of retaining the services of their star player, Nico Williams, despite interest from Premier League giants Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.
The 22 year old Spanish sensation, who was instrumental in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, has a release clause of around £49million.
However, it is Barcelona who are believed to be at the forefront of the race for his signature, having identified him as their primary target this summer.
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Despite this, Bilbao remains optimistic about keeping the winger, who scored in the Euro 2024 final against England, especially since he recently expressed his contentment with life in the Basque Country.
Furthermore, Williams' wage demands could pose a challenge for any club considering activating his release clause.
It is understood that Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, met with Williams' representatives earlier this week, indicating the Catalan club's serious intent to secure the forward.
Williams is expected to return to training in Bilbao on August 12.
Spanish giants Barcelona are known to be keen to reunite Williams with his international team-mate Lamine Yamal by bringing him to the Nou Camp.
Both players were named in UEFA's team of the tournament for the Euros, chipping in with three goals and five assists between them.
Williams' preference to remain in La Liga looks set to give Barcelona an edge over rivals from the Premier League when it comes to negotiating personal terms. However, the greater financial pulling power enjoyed by the English top flight could put teams in a position to offer Williams a higher wage.
