United hold talks over sensational swoop for Spanish wing wizard likened to Cristiano Ronaldo – report

Manchester United are reportedly exploring a possible summer move for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams. According to a report from TeamTalk, United have already held talks regarding the Spain international. The update suggests that the 23-year-old’s name is being discussed as the club looks ahead to potential attacking additions for the next transfer window. The situation is seen as a major opportunity, with Williams described as a forward who could add a new dynamic in wide areas. The same report references a valuation of £87m, underlining the scale of any deal should United decide to move beyond initial contacts. Williams has long been linked with Premier League clubs, and he is positioned as a high-upside target. Rooney praise highlights Williams threat Wayne Rooney has previously been unequivocal about the winger’s ceiling, comparing his style to Cristiano Ronaldo’s early years. The former United striker wrote: “Williams, for me, is exceptional. He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo when Cristiano was young.” Rooney added: “He’s a big lad, he’ll take the ball and sometimes tries too much but usually makes the right decisions.” He continued: “He is an incredible threat in one-on-one situations and scores goals as well.” Schedule adds context to winger search While recruitment planning intensifies behind the scenes, United’s immediate focus remains on a return to Premier League action at the Hill Dickinson Stadium when they face Everton away on Monday, 23 February. With the season entering a decisive stretch, it remains to be seen whether the report develops into a formal approach. For now, the latest claim simply places Williams on the list of wide forwards being discussed, with Rooney’s Ronaldo comparison serving as a reminder of the level United would be aiming to add. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Okari Wambunya Okari Wambunya is a football writer at The Peoples Person, covering Manchester United with fast, accurate, and source-led news, analysis, opinions, team developments, injuries, press conferences, and matchday reactions. A former secondary school teacher, he now coaches college football (not soccer) and continues to support young people through academic mentoring and youth work. He holds a BA (Hons) in English from Brunel University London and an MA in Education from King’s College London, with experience across digital journalism and broadcast sports media. Okari first praised Michael Carrick in a blog post he wrote at 16-years-old in 2014; over a decade later, United appointing Carrick as interim head coach feels like a full-circle moment.