Breaking News: Real Madrid are monitoring Athletic Club’s rising star Nico Williams.
Real Madrid Target Nico Williams
Real Madrid are said to be preparing a move for Nico Williams, the 21-year-old Spanish winger who has enjoyed a breakout season with Athletic Club. With 5 goals and 11 assists in La Liga this season, Williams has emerged as one of Spain’s most promising young talents. His speed, dribbling ability, and creativity on the flanks have made him a top target for several elite clubs.
Los Blancos see Williams as a long-term replacement for aging forwards and a complement to their youthful core, which includes Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. Although Williams recently extended his contract with Athletic Club until 2027, it includes a reported release clause of €50 million — an amount well within reach for the Spanish giants.
The winger is also expected to play a prominent role in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, and a strong performance could further boost his value and accelerate Madrid’s interest.
Chelsea Begin Talks with Jorrel Hato
Meanwhile, Chelsea are actively working on reinforcing their defense and have reportedly initiated talks with Ajax over 18-year-old centre-back Jorrel Hato. A product of the famed Ajax academy, Hato has quickly become a first-team regular and impressed with his composure, athleticism, and ball-playing ability.
Chelsea have made a concerted push toward signing young, high-potential players under their new ownership model, and Hato fits the profile perfectly. Sources suggest that initial contact has been made between the clubs, with the Blues aiming to complete the signing early to avoid competition from other Premier League rivals.
Despite his age, Hato has already captained Ajax on several occasions, and Dutch media consider him one of the brightest prospects in the Eredivisie. A fee in the region of €25–30 million is expected to be enough to secure his services.
As both Real Madrid and Chelsea look to bolster their squads for the upcoming season, these potential moves highlight the growing emphasis on young, versatile talent in the modern
transfer market.