Chelsea is reportedly contemplating a summer acquisition of Athletic Bilbao’s rising star, Nico Williams, with a release clause of around £43M. Despite the club’s primary need for a striker, Williams, who has showcased his prowess with six goals and 11 assists this season, has caught Chelsea’s attention. However, the potential signing raises questions about the future roles of Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk, fellow wingers in the Chelsea squad.

The Telegraph reports that Williams, at 21, currently earns over £100,000-a-week after tax in Spain, positioning him among the top earners at Chelsea if the move materializes. Moreover, in the context of financial regulations, Chelsea may need to make sales before pursuing new signings this summer.

Nico Williams, contracted with Athletic Club until 2027, has not only garnered interest from Chelsea but also reportedly attracts attention from Arsenal. Having made 11 appearances for Spain and scoring two goals, Williams has been with Bilbao since 2013.

As Chelsea gears up to face Newcastle United on March 11 in the Premier League, off the pitch, the club faces the challenge of raising at least £100Mn by June 30 to comply with financial fair play rules, a matter currently in dispute at Stamford Bridge.