Di Marzio claim that Chelsea have reacted by pushing hard for Williams, who operates on the left flank in a direct contrast to Olise, but they are insisting on finding an agreement with Bilbao swiftly to bolster Enzo Maresca’s squad for the coming season.

The Spanish club have been firm in their stance that Williams will not leave for any figure lower than his £47m release clause, as they have no desire to let him leave.

“Nico is happy in Bilbao and at Athletic and we’re very happy with Nico,” club president Jon Uriarte said this week. “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.”

While the winger himself has reiterated that he will not force a move this summer, having qualified for next season’s Europa League with Bilbao, while Chelsea will be competing in the Europa Conference League.

“I’m very happy at Athletic, it’s the club that has given me everything,” Williams said in the build-up to Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign. “It’s the club that has bet on me 100 per cent. I’m very happy in Bilbao and that’s what I have to say.

“Yes, I am quite clear about it. Athletic is my home, I am very happy, now what I want to do is focus on the Euros. If you are not 100 per cent in a competition for this one, they will overtake you. As for the rest, I don’t know what will happen.”

Williams is tied to Bilbao until 2027 and although the Spanish club are relaxed about their superstar’s future, they will have no power if Chelsea trigger the £47m clause and enter direct negotiations with the player.

The Blues continue to be very active in the transfer market after already competing the free transfer of centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham and the capture of Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian from Palmeiras.

Williams could be the latest to join, while Chelsea remain in negotiations with Aston Villa over the £19m acquisition of young striker Omari Kellyman.