Chelsea hogged the limelight for their extraordinary spending spree in the summer of 2024, bringing in a handful of new signings. The Blues splurged more than £200 million to secure the services of a flock of top young talents while handing manager Enzo Maresca one of the more bloated squads in Europe.
The Blues’ MO in the transfer market under ambitious owners Clear Lake Capital was laid bare: To snap up the best young talents across the globe. With less than three months to go for the next summer transfer window, Chelsea seem to be set for another busy spending spree.
As per reports, Chelsea are keeping tabs on Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams ahead of a potential move.
Nico rose to prominence following a spectacular 2023/24 season, where he established himself as one of the best young forwards in Europe. The Spaniard enjoyed massive success at club and country level, winning the Copa del Rey with the Lions and Euro 2024 with La Roja. He had a tournament to remember at the European Championship, scoring in the final against England.
It led to his stock skyrocketing in the summer of 2024, and Barcelona appeared to be on the verge of securing his transfer. However, a move fell apart at the last minute, prompting the 22-year-old to continue with Athletic Club.
Nico Williams last 3 seasons:
45 G/A
20 Goals
25 Assists pic.twitter.com/smYrAwysnX— StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) January 16, 2025
Although his form has dipped slightly this season, Nico Williams continues to be one of the hottest prospects, monitored by some of the European heavyweights.
Chelsea are also among the suitors and are said to be plotting a move for the Spanish winger, who has a release clause worth £49 million in his contract, which runs until 2027.
What can Nico Williams bring to Chelsea’s attack?
Chelsea are currently overwhelmed with attacking talents, especially wingers such as Jadon Sancho, Pedro Neto, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke.
Adding Nico Williams to an already fortified squad will make Chelsea one of the fearsome attacking units, but the question is whether the Blues should prioritise his signing over others.
The Spaniard is extremely athletic, has exceptional dribbling skills and can be very direct during transitional attacks. He is lethal during 1v1 situations, while his striking prowess is also remarkable.
Since the Blues will have to make a decision regarding Sancho, who has a buyout clause worth £25m, Nico appears to be surplus to requirements.
Instead, Chelsea should try to focus on bringing in a prolific centre-forward which could help them establish their dominance in the Premier League in the forthcoming seasons.
