News

Nico Williams to Arsenal transfer latest as ex-star ‘leads’ race to become new sporting director

Add as preferred source on Google

Catch all the latest Arsenal news, including updates on EFL Cup semi-final, Nico Williams transfer and Tomas Rosicky return.

Plenty is going on in the world of Arsenal, with a mixture of cup competition action and transfer links dominating the proceedings.

The Gunners took on Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-finals on Tuesday night, with a 2-0 defeat taken from the tie – meaning there is work to do in the reverse leg next month.

Aside from that clash, there has been plenty of focus surrounding potential deals in the transfer market for Arsenal.

A forward appears high on Mikel Arteta’s radar, though it remains to be seen if a deal can be made before the end of the month.

With that said, here’s a look at the top stories heading into another busy day of action for Arsenal.

Arsenal lose to Newcastle in EFL Cup semi-final first leg

Arsenal had a nightmare start to their EFL Cup semi-final clash against Newcastle as they fell to a 2-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon handed the Gunners a difficult mountain to climb to make the final of the competition.

Arsenal v Newcastle United - Carabao Cup Semi Final First Leg
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

There were chances for Arsenal though, with the side accumulating over three expected goals [xG] from the tie, but they were unable to put any chances away.

It has raised some questions over the tenure of Mikel Arteta, who is facing a fight to deliver silverware back at the club.

Read more on Arsenal fan verdict on Mikel Arteta sacking.

Nico Williams to Arsenal transfer stance

Nico Williams may have softened his stance on a possible transfer switch in the January window, following links with a move to Arsenal.

The winger was rumoured with a switch in the summer market but ultimately decided to stay with Athletic Bilbao.

However, that may well have changed heading into January, with a tempting £50million release clause available to trigger.

Deportivo Alaves v Athletic Club - La Liga EA Sports
Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

According to TBR Football’s information, Williams is now open to making a switch to the Premier League, while Barcelona are also showing interest.

Sources close to Arsenal Insider shed some light on the situation, adding that Arsenal like the winger “a lot” and the club’s hierarchy are following a potential “good value” move.

Read more on Nico Williams to Arsenal transfer.

Tomas Rosicky eyeing Arsenal return as sporting director

Former Arsenal star Tomas Rosicky is being linked with a potential return to the club in the role of a sporting director.

The ex-midfielder has been holding a similar role at Sparta Prague ever since he retired in 2018, impressing in his time since.

Ceremony - UEFA EURO 2024 Final Tournament Draw
Photo by Alexander Scheuber/Getty Images

Rosicky could make a stunning return to replace Edu Gaspar at the club, with the Guardian reporting that he is “leading” the way to land the job.

It’s stated that the 44-year-old has stayed in contact with the hierarchy in north London, which could see him make a return.

Read more on Tomas Rosicky return to Arsenal.