Arsenal have reportedly entered the fray for Athletic Bilbao’s highly-rated winger Nico Williams, with Footmercato claiming the Gunners have initiated discussions for a potential summer transfer. The Spanish international has been on the radar of top European clubs for some time, and Arsenal’s interest signals a significant intent to bolster their attacking options.
Williams, 22, previously attracted attention from giants like Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona last summer. However, a move failed to materialize as the winger opted to sign a contract extension to remain at the San Mamés Stadium. Now, Arsenal have emerged as the latest club keen on securing his services ahead of the new season.
According to the French football outlet, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director, Andrea Berta, has already engaged with Williams’ representatives to explore the possibility of bringing the pacy winger to the Emirates Stadium. Berta’s involvement underscores the seriousness of Arsenal’s pursuit of the Spanish talent.
However, the Gunners will face stiff competition for Williams’ signature. The report indicates that Barcelona remain interested in the youngster, and Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich are also in the running. While Williams penned a new four-year deal with Athletic Bilbao in 2023, it is believed to contain a release clause of around £48 million, a figure considered a potential bargain for a player of his quality and future potential.
Arsenal currently possess a few options on the left wing, including Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling (on loan from Chelsea, though primarily used on the right by Mikel Arteta). While Martinelli has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly when covering for Bukayo Saka during injury spells, consistency has been an occasional issue. Trossard, on the other hand, has just one year left on his contract, and his form has seen a slight dip compared to his initial impact after joining in January 2023.
The addition of Nico Williams would provide Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with a more consistent and reliable option on the left flank. The Spaniard’s flair, pace, and creative abilities are seen as an ideal fit for Arteta’s dynamic attacking system, which has already delivered an impressive 55 goals this season, the third-highest in the Premier League.
With established European giants like Barcelona and Bayern Munich also reportedly vying for Williams’ signature, Arsenal may need to act swiftly and decisively to secure his transfer in the upcoming summer window. The battle for the talented winger is expected to be one of the key transfer sagas of the season.
