Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with the move for the Brazilian winger Raphinha at the end of the season.
Journalist Dean Jones has now revealed to Give Me Sport that Tottenham are more likely to make a move for Athletic Club Bilbao attacker Nico Williams, instead of signing the Barcelona attacker.
Barcelona could look to demand a premium for the 27-year-old winger and Nico Williams would be a better value for money. The 21-year-old has been outstanding for Athletic Club Bilbao this season and he has six goals and 13 assists in all competitions.
Jones said: “I’m not very expectant over Raphinha, even though Tottenham are interested in him. They have a few like him on their list but I get the feeling he is on it more in hope than expectation. This is a serious talent. I know he has not set the world alight at Barcelona but he has been desperate to make that move work out and he’s still in the starting XI for Brazil so this is a player who retains high value in the market and Barca would deal with that accordingly if interested parties make contact. I have a feeling that if Spurs sign a player from La Liga it might be more likely they try for Nico Williams. He’s on the list too and actually might be a better fit at a better price.”
Nico Williams would be a long-term prospect
He is likely to improve further with coaching and experience. Williams is still only 21 and he could develop into a top-class Premier League attacker with the guidance.
He will add pace, flair, creativity and goals to the Tottenham attack. The North London outfit need a versatile attacker like him who will be able to slot into multiple roles. The Spaniard is capable of playing anywhere across the front three and he will add some much-needed cutting edge in the final third.
Tottenham are currently pushing for Champions League qualification and they will be an attractive destination for the player if they manage to finish in the top four. Their attacking brand of football should be a good fit for Williams as well. Regular football in England could help him develop further and fulfil his world class potential.
On the other hand, Raphinha is 27 and he is unlikely to get better with time. It makes sense for the North London club to invest in Williams instead.
