Arsenal have been hit by a potential transfer stumbling block in the race to sign Nico Williams in the January window.
The Gunners are in desperate need of new additions in the forward line, with recent struggles in front of goal highlighting issues with the lack of a clinical nature in the side.
The January transfer window does offer some solace to Mikel Arteta, offering up some opportunities for Arsenal to make a signing or two, but with limited options.
There is the possibility for a star addition though, with Nico Williams available for transfer with his £50million release clause.
As interest in the winger steps up, it’s reported that Williams could be open to joining Arsenal, with his stance on a switch to the Premier League softening.
There are, however, other stumbling blocks that could prevent a deal from going through this month.
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Nico Williams release clause and wages problem in Arsenal transfer
Arsenal transfer links with Nico Williams come as little surprise, given the 22-year-old is one of the up-and-coming talents in Europe.
His impressive performances for Athletic Bilbao and the Spanish national team have put him in front of some of the biggest teams in the world.
The Gunners will be hoping to land Williams as an option for themselves, with his ability to feature on the left and right seen as key versatility for the current situation.
However, there are two key stumbling blocks that could prevent a deal from going through altogether for Arsenal.
According to The Athletic, the release clause having to be paid in full and right away is one issue, with it meaning the side can’t work around it with instalments or anything else to alleviate PSR concerns, making the move unlikely.
On top of that are the wages involved, with the report adding that his full salary could also make a deal complicated.
It certainly suggests that a move may be off the cards for January and much more likely for the summer transfer window.
However, the January transfer window has a way of pulling up surprises and there could be some round the corner.
Arsenal must work quick on Nico Williams transfer switch
If Arsenal are to wait until the summer to land Williams, then they will need to start putting in the groundwork now to get it over the line in time.
Competition from Barcelona and Chelsea could complicate the deal, by which point the new financial year in football will have rolled over, which could give them the capacity to make a move.
If the Gunners are to beat them, they will need to have most things sorted out before triggering the release clause at the soonest available moment.
It puts more pressure on the hierarchy to get things in place, with Arsenal in desperate need of some attacking firepower.
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