Fabrizio Romano Reveals Big Update on Chelsea’s Pursuit of Nico Williams Amid Arsenal Interest

Chelsea and Arsenal are both chasing the signature of highly-rated winger Nico Williams, but they may have to work extra hard to convince the 22-year-old to leave his current club, Athletic Bilbao, this summer.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, both Premier League giants see the Spanish international as a priority target, but there’s one problem — Williams is reportedly very comfortable at Bilbao, and his club are already working on a new contract to keep him in Spain.

Chelsea Coach Enzo Maresca has made it clear he wants five wingers in his squad for the upcoming season. The club have already signed Liam Delap and are pushing to bring in more attacking firepower in the wide areas.

The Blues are believed to be open to selling Noni Madueke, while Jadon Sancho has already returned to Manchester United after failing to secure a permanent move to Stamford Bridge.

Williams, who scored 11 goals and provided 7 assists in 45 matches last season, is seen as a potential game-changer for Chelsea. But his €58 million release clause isn’t the only hurdle — he’s reportedly demanding wages of £400,000 per week to move to the Premier League.

That kind of salary could put pressure on both Chelsea and Arsenal, especially with Financial Fair Play rules and internal wage structures to consider.

With a deal for Williams looking tricky, Chelsea are also focusing on Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, the 20-year-old winger from Borussia Dortmund. Talks are said to be going smoothly, and the Blues are hopeful of agreeing a deal worth around £30 million plus bonuses.

Gittens scored 12 goals last season and is seen as a top talent with a bright future. Chelsea want to get the move done quickly — ideally before they head to the Club World Cup in the United States later this year.

If Chelsea manage to land Gittens, it could lessen the urgency around Williams, although the Spain international remains a top name on the wishlist.

With both Chelsea and Arsenal watching closely, Nico Williams’ decision could shape the rest of the summer transfer window. Bilbao are doing everything to keep their star man, but if either Premier League club meets his price and wage demands, they may just tempt him away.