Report: Major stumbling block revealed in Chelsea’s pursuit of £48m star | OneFootball

The representatives of Chelsea transfer target Nico Williams are demanding more than £400,000 per week for the winger according to reports.

The Blues are once again set for a busy summer and could look to sell as many as seven or eight players to fund their business.

Chelsea face a critical window with the club looking to sign a striker, centre back and right footed attacker to improve Enzo Maresca’s squad.

Williams wants £400,000 per week

Whilst a striker is the main priority there’s expected to be plenty of movement in the wide areas with Estevao Willian arriving this summer, whilst Noni Madueke is attracting interest from as many as six Premier League clubs.

Chelsea still haven’t decided if they will make Jadon Sancho’s loan move permanent, whilst they are said to be leading the race for Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens.

Another player linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge is Athletic Bilbao star Williams, who had been described as a “dream” target for clubs like Chelsea by Fabrizio Romano.

Williams is attracting interest from the Premier League. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The 22-year-old could leave Bilbao this summer and he has a release clause of £48m, which is more than affordable for Europe’s top clubs.

However, his wage demands could put suitors off and Mail Sport have reported his representatives are seeking more than £400,000 per week.

The report adds along with Chelsea that Arsenal are also interested, whilst it’s not been ruled out he could be offered a new deal with Bilbao, which would see the release clause changed.

Williams has scored 11 goals and provided 7 assists in 43 appearances in all competitions and has helped Bilbao reach the Europa League semi finals, where they face Manchester United.

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Whilst the Spain international is clearly a talent there’s no way Chelsea will be taking their interest further if those reported wages are true.

Chelsea are said to be prepared to break their wage structure for the right player, but it would seem unlikely they would do it to that extent and not on a proven player with experience.