Latest developments
- Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are chasing Nico Williams.
- Both clubs are reportedly ready to trigger the release clause in his contract.
- The winger has endured a relatively tough season in Spain.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Fichajes far from reliable, but…
Nico Williams has landed on the radar of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur despite enduring a difficult season at Athletic Bilbao. The North London duo are understood to be prepared to trigger the Spaniard's £49 million release clause ahead of deadline day.
The outlandish claim comes from Spanish outlet Fichajes.net (via Standard), who are more often than not on the wrong side of the real development. That said, it hasn't escaped the attention of British mainstream media, so there may be some weight.
Given how much likelier Arsenal were considered to sign him compared to Spurs earlier this week, it is intriguing to see the North London duo now being spoken of as near-equals in this race. As such, the spotlight is on what exactly a Spurs move would offer him.
Value (2.5/5): Too high for potential
The 22-year-old made plenty of headlines over the summer with his performance with Spain in the Euros. However, this season, he has just three goals to his name.
Williams boasts immense potential, but for £49 million, any club would be taking a big risk with the move. Barring a miracle, Spurs' only route to the 2025/26 Champions League is via a Europa League triumph, so this is a big risk.
Suitability (3/5): Dribbling wizard
The Spain international mainly operates on the left flank and makes use of his mazy dribbling and incredible pace to leave his opponents behind.
If Spurs are fully confident that they can get him linked up with Dominic Solanke or Richarlison, there is an argument for the Lilywhites to pay the release clause amount.
Upgrade? (3/5): Spurs could do with a new winger
His former might is undisputed, but Heung-min Son hasn't exactly set the league alight over the last 12 months.
Considering Son's age compared to the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Spurs are likely to be able to hand Williams a more solid opportunity to start in the short term and develop through playing experience in the long term.
Logic (2/5): Best to stay in Spain
Williams is still a raw talent and this season's struggles have further underlined that heading to the Premier League could prove to be risky for his growth. It would be best for him to stay in Bilbao and find his rhythm under Ernesto Valverde.
Whisper+ verdict: 13/25
The reputation of the source alone means this move looks unlikely, especially when there's very limited time left in the winter window.
