Reports state that Chelsea no longer seems likely to sign the talented Spanish winger from Athletic Bilbao and trigger his contract’s release clause.
The winger, who had an incredible season with Athletic last season, with eight goals and 19 assists in 37 games, has long piqued the curiosity of the Blues.
But in December of last year, Williams agreed to a new, long-term deal with the Basque team that included a release clause worth almost £49 million.
Furthermore, it has been reported by a number of sources that Chelsea is searching for less expensive ways to increase the depth of its wide-ranging offensive onslaught.
Arsenal, a Premier League opponent, is still keen to pursue a deal this summer, even if Chelsea may have given up on the battle.
Although the player is regarded by Mikel Arteta as “one of his preferred options” in attack, the club is hesitant to pay the high fee that will probably be necessary to entice Williams away from his childhood club.
Conversely, Williams stated he was “happy” at Athletic Bilbao and distanced himself from rumors of a potential transfer last week.
‘I’ve seen reports talking about my future, but honestly, I have no clue of anything,’ he said.
I want to concentrate solely on the Euros at this time.
“I am thrilled to be in Bilbao. I had a great season last year and signed a new contract.” I feel comfortable here, but I’m not sure what to do next.
You cannot be told what the future holds. This is the most recent setback to Chelsea’s hopes of strengthening their team before Enzo Maresca’s debut season.
Tosin Adarabioyo, a center-back from Fulham, has joined the team. However, Michael Olise, a winger for Crystal Palace, who is supposedly close to joining Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich for £60 million, was not recruited by the club.