Manchester United should beat Chelsea to the signature of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer.
The Spaniard has been in fantastic form for the La Liga outfit this term, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists from 27 appearances in all competitions.
His performances have recently caught the eye of Chelsea and The Telegraph report that the 21-year-old has been added into the Blues’ transfer shortlist.
Williams only signed a new contract in December last year. His wages were increased significantly, but his release clause remains unchanged at £43 million.
In our opinion, the Red Devils should go head-to-head with the Blues to sign Williams, who can comfortably operate from both wide attacking roles.
Williams would be a top acquisition for United
Williams has become one of the most sought-after wingers in European football.
He made 15 goal contributions in all competitions last season. The Spaniard has already exceeded that tally this term with 17 goal involvements for the Basque outfit.
Aside from this, he has also been brilliant with his dribbling. He averages more than two take-ons per outing while making 4.3 recoveries and winning five duels.
His all-round attributes would make him an ideal fit of United. Williams predominantly played from the right wing last term. He has operated as a left winger this campaign.
His versatility would make him a valuable signing for any elite club. If United were to pursue his signature, the big stumbling block could be his weekly wage demands.
Bilbao recently handed him a huge deal worth £172,000-a-week to convince him to stay and avoid leaving on a free transfer at the end of the current campaign.
If Williams were to leave Bilbao, he could easily demand £250,000 to £300,000 per week.
United are currently in the process of trying to reduce their wage bill. It is a prime reason why they have decided against triggering Raphael Varane’s extension clause.
Varane is the second highest earner at the club at £340,000 weekly. There are also doubts over the future of midfielder Casemiro, who currently earns £350,000 per week.
Williams’ wage demands could be a potential roadblock to United signing him this summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Capology.com & Sofascore.com
