Nico Williams: Athletic Bilbao President Confident of Spanish Star Staying Amid Barcelona Interest

• Nico Williams has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona
• His contract with Athletic Bilbao expires next summer
• The club's president is optimistic he will sign a new deal

Athletic Bilbao President Jon Uriarte has opened up on the potential of losing their young talent Nico Williams, when his contract expires in June 2024.

The Spanish international has been a subject of speculation about his future, and Barcelona have been heavily linked with the 21-year-old.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Williams is set to sign a two-year deal until 2026. The report also claims that Williams's release clause is expected to be set at €50 million, meaning that he could still leave San Mames next summer.

The 21-year-old made his debut in 2021 for Bilbao and has become a key member of the squad. He has made 92 appearances, scored 12 goals, and assisted 11 times, per Transfermarkt.

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Williams also plays alongside his brother, Inaki Williams, who has been playing for Bilbao's first team since 2015.

Interestingly, Nico plays for Spain, while Inaki plays for Ghana. Their parents migrated from Ghana to Spain.

Athletic Club president on Williams's future

Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte is positive the youngster will stay with the club beyond next season.

“We feel calm about that. We think he’s going to extend and stay with us, this will happen," he said. "We want an attractive project, feeling sure that Nico Williams will be part of that for many years to come," per Fabrizio Romano.

Real Madrid have also been heavily linked with the winger. English giants Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa are reportedly linked with the Spaniard.

Ghana lose Nico Williams to Spain

Four-time African champions Ghana lost talented Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams to the Spanish national football team, as Sports Brief earlier reported.

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The 21-year-old born to Ghanaian parents in Spain has earned his first call-up from the European nation in September 2022.

In a video posted on social media, Spain's ex-manager Luis Enrique included the winger in the UEFA Nations League games.