Nico Williams is the latest forward to be linked with Real Madrid, with the Athletic Club winger reportedly attracting interest from the Spanish champions amid growing speculation over his future in Bilbao.
The 23-year-old, valued at €70.00m, is rumoured to be on Madrid’s radar according to transfer listings, with the move currently carrying an unspecified probability. Williams remains under contract at Athletic, but with no firm expiry date publicly indicated in the data, observers have noted that a future departure – including the possibility of him running down his deal and becoming a free agent – cannot be ruled out.
Any approach from Real Madrid would involve negotiating with a club renowned for driving a hard bargain for their stars, particularly home-grown talents. Williams has developed entirely within Athletic’s system since arriving from CA Osasuna’s youth ranks in 2013, progressing through the youth, U18, U19 and Bilbao Athletic sides before stepping up to the first team in 2021.
Born in Pamplona on 12 July 2002, the right-footed left winger represents Spain at international level and is also eligible for Ghana, reflecting his dual heritage. His rise has been mirrored by a steep increase in market value: from €1m as an 18-year-old at Bilbao Athletic in 2020 to €70m at Athletic Club by mid-2024, where his valuation has remained through 2025.
Williams’ role on the left of the attack, combined with his age and LaLiga experience, makes him an attractive long-term option for Madrid as they continue to refresh their forward line. While no agreement is in place and no timeline is suggested in the data, the mere association with Real Madrid underlines how far his reputation has grown – and if a move does materialise, it could mark a defining step in shaping both his career trajectory and standing among Europe’s elite.
