SHARE

Aston Villa ‘have set their eyes’ on Athletic Club Bilbao forward Nico Williams and would offer him ‘much more money’ than the Spanish side to move to Villa Park.

That’s according to COPE, who back up earlier claims from Spain that Aston Villa were moving for Williams after missing out on Marco Asensio.

They explain that the forward’s current contract includes a €50m release clause, which would be more than ‘affordable’ for the Premier League side.

They’re ready to put a ‘succulent offer’ on the table for him and pay him much more money than he current earns at Athletic, having been impressed by his performances this season.

Williams was an undisputed star for the Spanish side across this campaign, scoring six and assisting another five in 36 games in the league.

He’s only further enhanced his reputation as one of the rising stars of Spanish football and Aston Villa are now ready to move for him to ensure that growth in under Unai Emery in Birmingham.

They’re taking advantage of the fact Williams’ current contract with Athletic expires in 2024 and a new deal, which has been offered but is trumped considerably by the money Aston Villa are proposing, hasn’t been signed as yet.

The player’s own choice will naturally be key but Villa are very much in the market for him and ready to pay to secure a deal after missing out on Asensio.