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The Reason Why Real Madrid Can't Sign Nico Williams This Summer

Originally posted on Real Madrid CF on SI
By Eduardo Razo | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 5:08 AM ET

The summer transfer window opens in a few days and one transfer saga that will be ongoing is Nico Williams’ future. After an impressive 2024 UEFA Euro showing, many assumed he’d leave Athletic Club, but despite the rumors, he stayed.

Now, another summer window has come, and the question is: Will Williams leave? Rumors are ongoing, and with Real Madrid adding more young and Spanish talent, could they decide to enter the mix for the talented winger?

On Thursday, Bernabeu Digital confirmed the player’s position from the beginning, and it was clear he didn’t intend to sign with Real Madrid, mainly due to sporting reasons and concerns over playing time.

That said, the report does mention that a strong offer—especially one that made him feel essential to the team and was financially appealing—might have changed things.

Still, his main goal was reportedly to stay at Athletic Club for at least one more season as the club will be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season, so a quality performance in that competition could lead to even more suitors or have clubs validate their interest in him.

It will be interesting to see if Rodrygo stays or goes and whether Kylian Mbappé works out for Real Madrid as a No. 9. Nonetheless, with Real Madrid adding Dean Huijsen and possibly Álvaro Carreras, perhaps Williams becomes the next Spanish talent to find his way to their target list next summer.

This article first appeared on Real Madrid CF on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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