Real Madrid have been among the most active clubs in the summer transfer window, already securing the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Franco Mastantuono. Alvaro Carreras is also set to join after the conclusion of the Club World Cup, but according to one of the club’s most iconic former players, Los Blancos shouldn’t stop there.
Speaking to Diario AS, Luis Figo made his case for the signing of Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, praising the 22-year-old’s potential and value in today’s inflated market.
“There are many players I like. I would sign Nico Williams, for sure. He is a gem. And his price seems affordable to me, considering the money that is spent nowadays. He would be a good signing because of the quality he has, and also because of his youth.”
Figo, who made a name for himself as a world-class winger in Madrid, sees elements of his own game in Williams but admitted the Athletic star offers a dimension he never had.
“We’re different players. He’s a player I like a lot because of his position. I like wingers, as it was where I played better (in my own career). But I wasn’t as fast as him, I wish I had been so fast.”
Real Madrid have been linked with Nico Williams in recent weeks, but the rumors were quickly met with skepticism. Williams is a natural left winger—a position where Real Madrid are already stacked, with Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Rodrygo Goes all capable of operating on that flank. The club also recently added Franco Mastantuono, further crowding their attacking options.
Moreover, Williams has reportedly made Barcelona his preferred destination. Sources suggest a move to the Catalan club could be finalized in the coming weeks, despite Figo’s public endorsement in favor of Madrid.
Any further Madrid pursuit would likely hinge on an unexpected departure, such as Rodrygo Goes leaving the club. Even then, integrating another left-sided attacker would be a challenge without disrupting the current balance of the squad.
With Alvaro Carreras expected to be the final confirmed signing in the near term, it remains to be seen if Real Madrid’s hierarchy will allocate additional funds for further reinforcements.
