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6 hours ago
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Real Madrid are looking to make massive changes this summer as they're set to enter a new era with alleged new manager Xabi Alonso.
The Spanish tactician prefers to play a particular philosophy, and to implement that, Los Blancos are in the transfer window to secure players who can thrive in Alonso's 3-4-3 system.
Madrid have already strengthened their backline by signing Dean Huijsen and are also reportedly closing in on Benfica left-back Alvaro Carreras.
They are allegedly also looking at other positions, including a left-winger and a midfielder. As per reports via Marca, they have stepped up their pursuit of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, who has been linked with Arsenal and Barcelona.
The reports also suggest that Los Blancos are ready to trigger his €58m release clause, which was added to his contract by Athletic Bilbao when he signed the new contract last summer.
Barcelona were very interested in the Spanish winger last summer, but he decided to stay another season at Bilbao. Despite the snub, Barcelona kept monitoring him with the hope of signing him in the future.
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However, in recent times, the Blaugrana are looking at other options. So for now, Madrid's biggest competitors will be Arsenal. Mikel Arteta is a big admirer of the Spaniard, and the Gunners have been linked with Williams for quite some time now.
Interestingly, the reports also suggest that Williams joining Madrid would mean a potential end of the road for Rodrygo Goes at the Spanish capital.
So it is a win-win scenario for the Gunners, who are also reportedly interested in the Brazilian. So if they miss out on Williams, the North Londoners would love to settle for someone of Rodrygo's calibe.
Where would Williams end up this summer?
Williams will be turning 23 this summer and had a breakout season in 2022/23. However, he couldn't replicate that this time due to injuries and form. He still scored 10 goals and provided seven assists this season in 42 outings across competitions.
While his numbers are not exceptional, his talent is undeniable. Alonso needs a player who can bring that explosiveness on the left flank, coupled with great speed and exquisite dribbling ability, and the 22-year-old fits the bill perfectly.
Williams has shown his credentials for Spain in the 2024 European Championship triumph, where he worked in tandem with Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and marauded defenders on the left flank.
So, wherever he ends up this summer, Williams will elevate that roster, but at the moment, it looks like Real Madrid are exploring the deal as they reportedly in the market to sign a left winger.
This is the second time Real Madrid have made a move on an Arsenal target this summer. Los Blancos are also interested in Espanyol's Joan Garcia and may sabotage his move to North London.
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