Nico Williams hints at transfer decision after Athletic Club return

Nico Williams appears to have confirmed his intention to remain with Athletic Club this summer after returning to the team for pre-season training.

Spain's Euro 2024 hero has attracted significant interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona, while Paris Saint-Germain were also touted as potential suitors as the winger's €58m (£49m) release clause made him a bargain target.

However, it was reported shortly before Williams' return to training that the 22-year-old was leaning towards remaining with Athletic, and he may have confirmed as much in a message to fans on the club's social media pages.

"I'm back!" he said. "I'm really looking forward to this season.

"Vamos, Athletic!"

Barcelona had been the primary suitors for Williams but appeared to accept defeat in their pursuit earlier this month when they turned their attention towards fellow Euro 2024 star Dani Olmo, for whom a €62m agreement has now been reached.

Despite a move for Williams looking unlikely, Barca defender Jules Kounde recently confessed his desire to link up with the winger next season.

"He is a great player and of course I would like to have him as a teammate," Kounde told the media. "Let's see what the club does, but if it can be done, of course we would be delighted."

Chelsea are still keen on a new wide forward but could use the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku in wider roles as they pursue a deal for Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion.

As for Arsenal, the Gunners are also reportedly still keen on a new forward and have been linked with Wolverhampton Wanderers' Pedro Neto and Galatasaray's Baris Alper Yilmaz.

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