Chelsea now seem unlikely to activate the release clause in Nico Williams’ contract to sign the promising Spanish winger from Athletic Bilbao, according to reports.
The Blues have long been interested in the winger, who had an outstanding season with Athletic last term, scoring eight goals and providing 19 assists in 37 appearances.
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However, Williams signed a new long-term contract with the Basque club in December last year, which includes a release clause of around £49 million.
Reports suggest that the fee is too steep for Chelsea, who are seeking more affordable options to enhance their wide attacking positions.
While Chelsea may have withdrawn from the race, Premier League rivals Arsenal remain interested in pursuing a deal this summer.
Mikel Arteta considers Williams ‘one of his preferred options’ in attack, but the club also has reservations about the asking price and the high salary likely needed to lure Williams from his boyhood club.
Meanwhile, Williams distanced himself from transfer rumors last week, insisting he is ‘happy’ with Athletic Bilbao.
‘I’ve seen reports talking about my future, but honestly, I have no clue of anything,’ he said.
‘Right now, I want to focus on the Euros and nothing else.
‘I am so happy in Bilbao, I signed a new deal and performed well last season. I feel at home, but I don’t know what I will do. Nobody can tell you about the future.’
For Chelsea, it marks another blow in their attempts to bolster their team ahead of Enzo Maresca’s first season in charge.
The club have signed Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham but missed on the signature of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise who is now reportedly on the verge of a £60m switch to Bayern Munich.
