Nico Williams commences contract extension talks with Athletic Bilbao | OneFootball

Athletic Bilbao and Nico Williams have begun negotiations over a potential contract extension.

A €10 million salary is being discussed, and a release clause could be included given the level of interest in him over the last couple of transfer windows.

Williams has become a standout figure for Bilbao with 42 direct goal contributions over the last two seasons, sparking interest from Chelsea and Arsenal.

The 22-year-old still has 24 months left on his current deal, which runs until 2027, but Bilbao are taking proactive steps towards retaining his services.

Williams played a crucial role in Bilbao’s Copa del Rey triumph in April 2024, a few months before starring for Spain en route to European Championship glory.

Despite being linked with a move away in the past, Williams recently insisted he is happy in Spain.

“Athletic is the club that has given me everything – the one that has bet on me one hundred percent,” he told Spanish radio station El Partidazo.

“I am very happy in Bilbao, and that is all I have to say. Yes, I am quite clear, in the end, as I have told you, Athletic is my home. I am very happy.”

Contract talks are expected to continue over the coming weeks, and the Basque outfit are keen to wrap up a deal to fend off any immediate competition for their marquee winger.