Latest developments
- Manchester United want to sign Nico Williams for £47.9 million.
- The Red Devils have made contact with Athletic Club.
- The left-winger would be replacing Marcus Rashford a Old Trafford.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Sources coming from Spain
Man Utd are quickly moving on from Marcus Rashford and looking to bring in UEFA Euro 2024 final goal scorer Nico Williams from Athletic Club as his replacement.
This news is being shared by teamtalk.com, but the story broke in Spain where journalist Dani Serrano claimed talks between the clubs have taken place.
Value (4.5/5): Release clause under valuation
Negotiations should be straightforward, if reports are to be believed that United are prepared to pay Williams' £47.9 million release clause.
And why wouldn't they? Given that his current market value is £57.85 million and he has had a stellar 2024, emerging as one of the best players at the Euros as Spain took the title.
Suitability (5/5): Adding star quality where its needed
A potential landmark signing in the early stages of the Ruben Amorim era, Williams would strike fear into the hearts of Premier League defences with his pace and skill, while being able to slot into the left side of Amorim's front three, mirroring the position he plays for Athletic and Spain.
Upgrade? (4.5/5): A step up across the whole squad
Even if Marcus Rashford was staying, the 22-year-old would be a clear upgrade at the left-wing position, where the future of the other contestant for a starting berth, Alejandro Garnacho, is still up in the air.
With United needing reinforcements in many areas, Williams can be considered an upgrade on pretty much anyone in the squad at present.
Logic (3/5): What's in it for Nico?
The positives for United are obvious, but what is the incentive for Williams? He and his boyhood club are doing better in the UEFA Europa League this season than United, while they are challenging for a top four finish in La Liga, whereas United are well off the Premier League pace.
The Red Devils can offer a bigger pay packet, but so can clubs in the UEFA Champions League.
Whisper+ verdict: 20.5/25
Williams looks tailor-made for United's current situation, so we can expect them to make an official bid. But when it comes to negotiating with Williams, they may have their work cut out.
