Real Madrid sent strong message over hunt to land Nico Williams as Athletic Club boss Ernesto Valverde offers update on Spain star

Williams has emerged as a transfer target for Los Blancos, as a Marca report suggests Barcelona have lost interest in signing the 22-year-old. The winger signed a new deal with Athletic Club last summer, but he has a release clause valued at €58 million.

Valverde believes Williams will remain in Bilbao, however, saying the player is "very happy", and the club wants him to stay. Athletic Club have enjoyed a brilliant season, amassing 70 points in La Liga. The allure of Champions League football could be enough to ensure Williams doesn't have his head turned by Madrid's overtures.

Valverde told reporters: "We assume he'll be with us next year, and we want that to be the case. There are always rumors about players, and you know how it is. We're very happy with Nico, and Nico is very happy with us  We hope next year is a great year for Nico, and that he does it here."

Williams will feature in Athletic Club's last game of the season, a home tie against La Liga champions-elect and his longtime suitors, Barcelona. It had been assumed that Williams would eventually turn out for La Blaugrana. Could a stellar display convince either Barça to rekindle their interest in the player, or force Real Madrid to step up their pursuit?