Release clause revealed for Manchester United scouting department’s “prime” target

The release clause for Manchester United’s previous “prime” transfer target this summer has been revealed amid interest from Barcelona.

Manchester United are in the market for a new forward this summer. Following Anthony Martial‘s departure, Rasmus Højlund is the only recognised centre-forward in Erik ten Hag‘s squad.

Multiple names have bene mentioned, with Joshua Zirkzee one that has been routinely linked to the club in the last six months. One report explained that the Old Trafford side are now prepared to activate his £34 million release clause.

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However, despite the perceived interest in Zirkzee, United have been dealt fresh news about Spanish international star Nico Williams.

In January this year, UtdDistrict sources revealed that the 21-year-old is seen by the club’s scouts as a prime transfer target this summer and is the department’s favoured choice.

Williams’ versatility across the front line has been obvious both for Spain and his current club, Athletic Bilbao, and is a big plus in the scouts’ eyes. He is also admired by Ten Hag.

With this in mind, Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Nico Williams’ release clause sits at around £49 million this summer after an agreement surrounding a new deal a few weeks ago.

This is certainly more than United would have to pay for Zirkzee, but Williams may be seen as an overall better option – although links between the two parties have not been as rife as those between Williams and Barcelona of late.

Jon Uriarte, president of Bilbao, recently addressed the rumours surrounding Williams so far this summer.

“We have impressive talent in the squad. When things are like this, it’s normal that there are players who arouse interest, but we’re not here to talk about rumours,” Uriate told reporters.

“Nico is happy in Bilbao and at Athletic, and we’re very happy with Nico. We don’t worry about or pay attention to rumours. We’re focused on creating an attractive project for all our players, fighting for titles and competing in Europe.”

He then added: “The club has room for economic manoeuvre to sign players. We had to be able to ensure that the investment did not penalise the expenses. We had to balance the accounts and boost the income.

“That has been our way of acting. At the club, we are always aware of what is on the market and identify opportunities.”

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