Nico Williams speaks out on future amid Liverpool links

Athletic Club forward Nico Williams has addressed his future, with his current contract just over half a year away from expiry.

The 21-year-old is rated as one of Spain's best young attacking talents, having already racked up ten caps for his country and over 80 appearances in La Liga.

The Pamplona-born forward, whose older brother Iñaki also plays for Athletic Club, scored nine times in all competitions last season and has a goal and five assists to his name so far in 2023/24.

His talent as naturally drawn attention from across the continent, with interest only raised by the fact that his contract is set to expire at the end of the campaign.

Liverpool have been named as one of the clubs keeping a close eye on the situation, while Williams will be allowed to sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club from as early as January, if he doesn't extend at Bilbao.

In addition to the Reds, Aston Villa – who attempted to sign the winger during the summer window – and Barcelona are also seen as potential suitors for Williams.

However, Williams has now seemingly poured water on the prospect of a transfer battle for the free transfer of the year, signalling his intention to stay at Athletic Club.

Speaking after his side's 1-1 draw with Girona at the weekend, he said: "I am happy in Bilbao. People have to stay calm, I have to keep working."

Meanwhile, Iñaki is quoted as saying of his younger brother's contract situation: "Those things are done when both parties are happy and content, and I know that my brother is happy in Bilbao. We are fulfilling my parents’ dream, whatever has to be, will soon be.

"We are happy at home, and we hope so. We are from here and we have grown up in Athletic, which is the club that has formed us and has given us the opportunity to fulfil our dreams."

Earlier this season, Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte revealed his confidence in securing Williams' renewal, despite the precarious situation.

He said: “Nico, like his family, Iñaki, his mother, are very happy. in Bilbao. They love Athletic. They love our project . We are working hard on both sides so that he can stay,”