Athletic Club will try a ‘quick move’ to improve Nico Williams’ contract to increase his release clause and force the likes of Arsenal to pay more for him.
That’s according to Estadio Deportivo, relaying information from El Correo, who report that Athletic know they face a challenge to keep their star so want to ensure they get as much as possible.
They explain that Athletic have almost resigned themselves to the fate that Williams will more this summer, with big clubs lining up for him and a report this week stating Arsenal’s new director of football Andrea Berta had met with his entourage recently.
The Spanish side do not intend to negotiate a deal for their star and instead will stick to his release clause, which is valued at €58m.
And the plan is to increase that amount, with Athletic hoping to reach a quick agreement with him on a new deal with an increased figure. No contacts have been made on that front yet, though.
There is a ‘minimal’ chance William will reject the interest froma the likes of Arsenal, Bayern, Barcelona and even Real Madrid but the reality is that he is ambitious, and they have the money to pay his clause, which is not seen as an obstacle.
Arsenal in particular have him as a priority target alongside Martin Zubimendi as they plan a big summer under Berta’s leadership.
Athletic are aware of that and hope for a quick agreement to raise the sums required and ensure they get as much as possible if Williams does depart.
