Chelsea are reportedly showing an interest in Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams ahead of the January transfer window. The Spain international has long been linked with bigger clubs despite being yet to complete a move, and it seems Chelsea are stepping up their interest.

According to a report from Fichajes, the Blues are prepared to meet Williams’ €90m release clause. While Manchester United could also be in the mix for Williams, the links to Chelsea are particularly intriguing amid doubts over the future of Jamie Gittens.

Potential Replacement for Gittens

Chelsea already have decent depth on the left-hand side of their attack, but there could be a role for Williams if Gittens ends up leaving. The talented young English winger hasn’t really lived up to expectations at Stamford Bridge and has expressed a desire to leave, according to a recent report from Simon Phillips.

Gittens had been keen on joining Roma in the summer, and although Chelsea blocked the move at that time, it remains a situation to monitor. The interest in Williams seems to arise from this potential exit.

Even if Gittens’ form has dipped recently, he remains a fantastic talent, and a change of scenery might benefit him at this stage of his career.

Implications for Manchester United

Manchester United would also do well to pursue Williams in the near future, as their attack seems to be struggling. Marcus Rashford has returned to Old Trafford after a loan spell at Barcelona, but his long-term future appears uncertain due to ongoing transfer speculation.

Williams could prove to be an upgrade for United, and he might be tempted to choose them over Chelsea, particularly as the Red Devils currently offer Champions League football while the Blues do not.