CONFIRMED: Nico Williams given permission for contract talks

Bayern Munich have moved a step closer to signing Nico Williams this summer after reportedly making the decision to activate his release clause which would all but end Arsenal and Chelsea’s interest in the Athletic Club star.

Williams has long-been linked with an exit from his boyhood club, having initially turned down a move to Arsenal last summer, and the Gunners have been among the frontrunners for his signature over the last few months.

However, Bayern are now considered the favourites to sign Williams, with the Bundesliga giants having already held talks with the 22-year-old’s management, according to Sky Sport Germany.

Bayern are aware they would have to ‘dig deep into their pockets’ to sign Williams due to his €60 million release clause, while his salary demands of around €20m is ultimately what has prevented Arsenal or Chelsea from moving forward with their interest.

Williams is reported to have told Bayern that he is ‘very open’ to a move, although there is no agreement as of yet even with director Max Eberl insisting his side are in the process of ‘finding another outstanding player’ to sign after missing out on Florian Wirtz to Liverpool.

The only competition now in Bayern’s pursuit of Williams could be Athletic Club themselves, with Williams still undecided over whether he is ready to leave the Bilbao side for a new chapter.

Romano confirms Bayern Munich interest in Williams

Williams salary demands would make him among the highest paid players at Bayern, making the total cost of transfer something that has seemingly proven unfeasible for Arsenal despite their long-term admiration for the winger.

Bayern have been open to a deal after missing out on Wirtz and also seeing Leroy Sane leave the club on a free transfer to join Galatasaray, with Williams the club’s top choice to replace the 29-year-old.

Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Williams’ demands take into account the potential contract extension he currently has on the table, which could see him remain in Bilbao unless Bayern make a significant proposal.

“Nico is already requesting important money in terms of salary,” Romano said. “But imagine that he would have on the table a new contract proposal with a better salary from Athletic. So this is why the story for Bayern is not easy, but they want to try and so let’s see what happens there.”

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