Bayern Munich have reportedly moved to the head of the queue for Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams.
The 22-year-old has again been in strong form for Athletic during the 2024-25 campaign, scoring 11 goals and registering seven assists in 44 appearances in all competitions, and there is widespread speculation surrounding his future ahead of the summer transfer window.
Barcelona activated the €58m (£49m) release clause in his contract last year, but Williams decided to remain with Athletic.
The forward had been hopeful of leading the Lions to Europa League success this term, with the final being played at their own stadium, but the La Liga team were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester United.
Williams played the first leg last week, which Athletic lost 3-0, but he was not involved in the return game at Old Trafford on Thursday night due to an injury, and it remains to be seen whether he is able to return before the end of the campaign.
Barcelona continue to be linked with the Spain international, while it is understood that Arsenal and Liverpool are both considering making moves for him during this summer's transfer window.
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Bayern 'emerge as favourites' for Williams
However, according to Fichajes, Bayern have stepped up their pursuit of the attacker, with the Bundesliga champions determined to secure his signature ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
The report claims that Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany wants to bring in a left-sided attacker to boost his squad, and Williams is viewed as the ideal signing due to the fact that he is available for a bargain fee considering his quality.
Williams has scored 31 goals and registered 30 assists in 166 appearances for Athletic in all competitions, while he is also now a key player for Spain, scoring four times and providing six assists in 26 caps.
Speaking ahead of Athletic's Europa League semi-final first leg against Man United, Williams said that he is "super happy" at San Mames.
"The dream is to lift the champion's trophy at San Mames. I have the opportunity to make history at this club. The dream never ends. I'm 100% focused on tomorrow, on reaching the final and winning it. I don't want to look any further. I'm super happy here and feel well. I've always wanted to feel important here. This is a 10/10 season for me," he said.
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Would Williams be a good signing for Bayern?
Bayern have regained the Bundesliga title this season, but they fell short in the Champions League, and there is certainly room in their squad for an attacking addition during this summer's transfer window.
Adding Williams into a team which includes Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise and Harry Kane is an exciting prospect for Bayern, and it would give them one of the most formidable attacks in world football.
There are concerns over a troublesome groin issue which has impacted Williams's form in recent weeks, but there is no question that he is a top-level player, and for €58m (£49m), he could be one of the best signings of the upcoming transfer window.
Matt Law
