Nico Williams: United ready to take giant step to sign Athletic winger | OneFootball

Manchester United have accelerated their efforts to find a replacement for Marcus Rashford.

In January, it emerged that Michael Carrick would like to reintegrate Rashford into his squad if he secures the permanent job.

However, the Englishman has found his stride at Barcelona, who are determined to sign him permanently. Meanwhile, the Red Devils have identified another La Liga winger to fill Rashford’s void on the left flank.

Manchester United keen on Nico Williams

According to a report in Spain, as relayed by Football365, Manchester United are “seriously considering launching an offensive in the next summer transfer window” to secure Nico Williams’ services from Athletic Club.

Last summer, Williams snubbed Barcelona to sign a 10-year contract with the Bilbao-based club. However, the deal includes a €100 million release clause.

As such, the 23-year-old’s suitors continue to monitor him. The Spaniard possesses the dribbling ability and explosive pace to trouble any defence on his day.

In fact, Jose Mourinho once suggested that Williams is better than his fellow countryman, Lamine Yamal. Meanwhile, former United head coach Ruben Amorim labelled the youngster as a “special” player. 

Manchester United ready to activate Nico Williams’ exit clause

United do not want to miss out on such an electric talent. It is claimed the Premier League giants “want to pay” Williams’ release clause in the summer and “there’s a feeling within the player’s camp that his time at Athletic Club may be coming to an end.”

The report adds: “Manchester United stands out among the interested clubs. The English side has been monitoring the player’s progress for some time and believes he could be a very important addition to their attack.”

United, however, should carefully examine Williams’ fitness record. The Athletic star has struggled to put together a consistent run of matches due to a complicated pubalgia problem.

It has been widely reported that RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande is United’s preferred winger target.

As long as Diomande is available and within reach, INEOS are unlikely to make a decisive move for the likes of Williams.

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