Athletic Club Bilbao president Jon Uriarte has insisted that the La Liga side are capable of keeping hold of rumoured Tottenham target Nico Williams, labelling the speculation over the winger’s speculation disrespectful.
Williams has been one of Spain’s best players at the Euros, with La Roja now just one game away from being crowned European Champions.
The 21-year-old is now one of the hottest young properties in world football, coming off a stellar season at club level, helping Athletic Bilbao get their hands on the Copa del Rey trophy.
Over the summer, a number of outlets have reported that Tottenham are one of several clubs eyeing a move for the winger, who is thought to have a release clause of around £42.8m within his contract (The Telegraph).
The likes of Liverpool and Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest in the youngster (Football Insider) while Barcelona and Chelsea also continue to be mooted as potential destinations for Williams (The Standard).
However, Uriarte has now batted away the speculation, insisting that Athletic Bilbao are in the middle of an important project and are capable of holding on to their star man.
The Basque club’s president said (via Fabrizio Romano): “We have a top project with no limit and we’re able to keep top players like Nico Williams at the club.
“There are too many questions always asked to Nico on his future as Federation has not been able to protect him. We ask for respect.”
Spurs Web Opinion
The existence of a release clause means that Athletic Club will be helpless to stop Williams from leaving if it is activated.
The challenge that Tottenham and other suitors face is in convincing the player’s entourage about the move.
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