After the developments on Wednesday, it is a necessity for Bayern Munich to sign a top-quality winger in the summer. Leroy Sane decided against staying in Munich and agreed to a free transfer move to Galatasaray. It is a significant blow for Bayern, as they were eager to retain Sane for next season.
According to Sky Sports in Germany, Bayern have identified Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams as the top target to strengthen the wings this summer. The Spanish winger has been linked with Die Roten consistently in the last 12 months.
Williams has a release clause worth €60-65 million in his contract at Athletic Bilbao. The Spaniard can imagine a move to Munich this summer. According to Sky Sports, he will command wages worth €20 million per season.
Nico Williams has been a standout performer for Athletic Bilbao in the last two seasons. He was one of the star performers for Spain at the Euros 2024, helping his team to lift the title. His pace and trickery with the ball create problems for the opposition. Williams will turn 23 next month, which makes him a long-term signing for Bayern.
In terms of numbers this season, Williams has scored 11 goals and chipped in with seven assists across all competitions for Athletic Bilbao. Bayern have held preliminary talks with Williams. There is a long way to go in terms of getting this deal over this line.
Bayern have PSG star on the list of targets
The Bundesliga champions will face competition from Arsenal for the signing of Williams. Athletic Bilbao are also trying to convince Williams to stay by offering him a new deal.
In terms of backup targets, Bayern are also interested in Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as the number two on their list for strengthening the attack. Barcola has been in fine form for the European champions, managing 21 goals and 14 assists across all competitions.
Barcola has a long-term contract at PSG, which makes it a difficult deal for Bayern to complete. Unless the French winger agitates for a move away from Paris, Die Roten are unlikely to get him this summer.
Apart from Barcola and Williams, Bayern also have an interest in Kaoru Mitoma, Cody Gakpo, Eberechi Eze, and Rafael Leao. Since Kingsley Coman is also likely to leave Bayern this summer, the Bavarian club may have to add two new attacking players to the squad.