Unai Emery’s stance on Aston Villa signing Nico Williams revealed – sources
Aston Villa will continue to closely monitor Euro 2024 star Nico Williams closely as they plot a summer swoop, sources have told Football Insider.
The Athletic Bilbao star, 21, has shone in Germany for Spain and Premier League clubs continue to monitor his situation.
Williams has a £49million release clause in his contract in the Basque Country but his wage demands have put other suitors off in Europe.
As such, it is believed only Premier League clubs can prise the winger away from Bilbao this summer – if he is willing to make the move.
Aston Villa are long-term admirers of Williams’ talents – with manager Unai Emery a “big fan”, sources say.
Aston Villa keep tabs on £49m Williams after Euro 2024 displays
It is believed club chiefs at Villa Park have been blown away with his recent displays and feel he has all the attributes to succeed in the English top flight.
Williams has made three appearances at Euro 2024, scoring once and adding one assist.
He won Copa del Rey with Bilbao in the 2023-24 campaign, playing 37 times across all competitions for the Basque giants.
The 21-year-old notched eight goals and 19 assists in those outings.
Williams renewed his contract at San Mames in December 2023, keeping him at the club until June 2027.
Aston Villa will play Champions League football next season after finishing fourth under Emery last term.
In other news, Chelsea could now strike Villa deal.
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