Arsenal are on the hunt for a forward in the transfer window this January, with Nico Williams among those heavily linked.
The Gunners have been rumoured with bolstering their options on the flanks, with injuries and quality in depth proving to be an issue.
Mikel Arteta said Arsenal will only enter the market if there are certain opportunities that arise at the right price over the month.
With Nico Williams’ £50million release clause, it would make sense for the Gunners to trigger a deal to skip through club-to-club negotiations.
However, there is no certainty that the player will be willing to move and with that in mind, a few other options may be required instead.
Arsenal hold talks with Rafael Leao over transfer
As Arsenal hold out for a potential deal to sign Nico Williams, the side are on the lookout for potential alternatives.
There is no guarantee that the star will want to leave Athletic Bilbao in mid-season, leading to other moves needing to be lined up.
According to FootballTransfers, Arsenal have “held conversations” over a potential move for AC Milan star Rafael Leao.
It would be a pricey switch though, with the report claiming that a move could cost €75million–€80million [roughly £67million].
The Portugal international may not be the preferred option due to the finances involved, especially compared to Williams, but could still be a switch on the cards.
It remains to be seen how possible a switch for Leao may be, though he has been given plenty of praise over recent seasons.
Rafael Leao compared to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry
If Arsenal are to make a move for Leao, then the winger could fill some big boots left many years ago by Thierry Henry.
The Arsenal legend was a superstar on the left flank, having a trademark finish when cutting in to finish with his right foot.
Leao was even compared to Henry in 2022 when his manager at AC Milan, Stefano Pioli, told the press: “He reminds me a lot of [Thierry] Henry.”
It’s plenty of praise for the 25-year-old, who has shown the ability to score plenty in Serie A – bagging 15 and assisting ten in 2022/23.
His form since hasn’t been quite as prolific, scoring nine and assisting ten in 2023/24 before his three of each in 2024/25.
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