“Marc Cucurella will love him” – Chelsea want to sign £50m “speed demon” for Enzo Maresca
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s Transfer Activity Heats Up Ahead of 2024/25 Season
With the 2024/25 Premier League season approaching, Chelsea’s transfer activity shows no signs of slowing down. Enzo Maresca has already been reunited with one of his former Leicester City players, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. However, the Blues are still looking to strengthen multiple areas as they aim to return to Champions League football, having missed out for the second consecutive season. The forward areas are a primary focus, with the club rumored to be interested in several wingers and strikers to complement their current talents, Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku.
Interest in Nico Williams
According to reports from The Standard, Chelsea is among the clubs interested in Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Tottenham and Barcelona are also said to be keen on the Spanish star, whose release clause is reportedly between £45-50 million. Chelsea could have an advantage in this race due to the presence of Marc Cucurella, who is currently on international duty with Williams at Euro 2024. Cucurella has been vocal about his efforts to convince Williams to join Chelsea, suggesting that Williams might be swayed by the prospect of teaming up with his compatriot at club level.
Williams’ Impressive Season
Williams had an outstanding season with Athletic Bilbao, scoring eight goals and providing 19 assists in all competitions. His impressive form earned him a spot in the national team, where he has continued to shine at Euro 2024. Williams has made four starts out of five games, scoring one goal and providing one assist. His direct and dynamic style of play has made him a significant threat for the Spain side.
Cucurella’s Influence
Williams has developed a strong connection with Chelsea left-back Cucurella, who has also started four of Spain’s five games at Euro 2024. Their partnership on the left side has been instrumental, contributing to two clean sheets and a crucial 2-1 extra-time victory over Germany to progress to the semi-finals.
Williams’ Strengths and Playing Style
Described as a “pace demon” by football podcaster Adam Keys, Williams is known for his speed and ability to take on defenders. He averages 5.69 progressive carries per 90 minutes and 3.42 successful take-ons per 90 minutes, showcasing his skill in beating opponents and creating opportunities in the final third. Williams excels when given 1v1 matchups, where he can use his creativity and pace to full effect.
Cucurella’s Role in Supporting Williams
https://x.com/itvfootball/status/1807513493567848648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1807513493567848648%7Ctwgr%5E9030c5e7214e2f24a3c9d27e0e1e02b6383909ca%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.footballfancast.com%2Fchelsea-keen-on-signing-nico-williams-could-be-spectacular-with-cucurella%2F
Cucurella’s defensive skills and strategic positioning make him an ideal partner for Williams. He is aggressive in regaining possession, winning 3.13 tackles per 90 minutes, making 1.82 blocks per 90 minutes, and achieving 1.11 interceptions per 90 minutes. Once in possession, Cucurella focuses on simple, supportive play rather than forcing creative passes. His ability to provide consistent support and make sacrificial runs creates space for Williams to exploit, enhancing the winger’s effectiveness.
Conclusion
As Chelsea continues to ramp up their transfer business, the potential addition of Nico Williams could significantly bolster their attacking options. With the right support from teammates like Cucurella, Williams could flourish in the Premier League and help Chelsea achieve their goal of returning to the Champions League.
