Nico Williams to Stay at Athletic Despite Madrid Interest

Real Madrid remains interested in signing Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, valuing his pace and youth, but Williams has opted to stay at Athletic for at least another season to play in the UEFA Champions League. Williams' decision is driven by loyalty to his current club and concerns about competing for playing time with Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid. The club has also signed center-back Dean Huijsen and is monitoring other targets, including Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold and Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez. Rodrygo Goes' future at Madrid is uncertain, as he is reportedly unhappy with a reduced role and is attracting interest from Premier League clubs. Real Madrid's ambitions for squad reinforcement remain high ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, but Williams' immediate transfer appears unlikely. The club will continue to monitor his situation for future opportunities.