Chelsea think Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams may be the perfect signing to replace Raheem Sterling at Stamford Bridge next season.
That is according to a report from SportsLens.
Blues winger Raheem Sterling, 29, is still under contract in west London until 2027.
He’s contributed eight goals and nine assists in 34 games across all competitions so far this season, which is a sign of a decent contribution in a struggling team.
However, he’s now been linked with a potential transfer exit.
SportsLens claimed a few days ago that Chelsea would sell Sterling in the summer window for the right price amid growing interest from Saudi Arabia.
Apparently, Mauricio Pochettino’s side already have eyes on the perfect replacement if Sterling does go.
SportsLens now claims in a fresh report that Nico Williams is viewed as the ‘ideal candidate’ by Chelsea to replace Sterling in the summer.
It is explained that the Blues have identified Bilbao’s 21-year-old rapid attacker as a genuine target.
However, there may be some serious competition to sign the La Liga star.
Premier League clubs Tottenham, Arsenal and Aston Villa have scouted Williams. In fact, Unai Emery’s Villa have made the most headway in terms of a deal for the Spain international.
Also, the Bilbao left-winger does have the ambition to go and test himself at a new club away from the Basque region.
Nico Williams targeted by Chelsea
Described as “exceptional” by Xavi in January (TotalBarca), Williams is a very exciting youngster emerging in Spanish football.
He’s been in pretty decent form this campaign for Bilbao, scoring six times and making 11 assists in 27 appearances.
The skilful winger, who’s good with both feet, looks like he could be a really exciting pick up for a club in England.
The Telegraph has reported that Williams does have a £43 million release clause in his Bilbao deal, plus he’s on hefty £100,000-a-week wages.
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