Arsenal revive interest in World Cup winger who once seemed untouchable

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Arsenal’s search for a left winger is gathering pace.

A name that once appeared to have been firmly closed off has re-emerged as a potential option.

Nico Williams signed a remarkable 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao last summer, seemingly ending speculation about his future after Barcelona failed to lure him to the Camp Nou.

At the time, it felt like he was committing to stay at his boyhood club for the foreseeable future. But just 12 months later, sources are suggesting the picture is not quite as settled as it appeared.

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal’s interest in the 23-year-old Spain international has “never gone away”, and sources close to the player indicate he would be open to testing himself in the Premier League should the right opportunity arise.

🏆 Which Arsenal star will go the furthest at this summer’s World Cup?

Zubimendi and Spain? Saka and England? Saliba and France?

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The Gunners are understood to have received fresh hope that a deal could be possible, with sporting director Andrea Berta firmly of the view that only a handful of wide forwards on the market are capable of genuinely improving Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Williams is absolutely among that group.

Is Nico Williams the answer to Arsenal’s left wing problem?

Williams heads into the World Cup looking to rebuild his stock after a disappointing club season on an individual level.

He managed six goals and seven assists across 32 appearances for Bilbao — not terrible numbers but for a player of his profile you would expect more, especially following his starring role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.

Arsenal’s need for a left winger is no secret. The futures of both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are uncertain, and the club are actively pursuing reinforcements.

On paper, Williams would be an exciting addition. He is explosive, direct and capable of moments of genuine brilliance.

But given his difficult club season and his huge wages of around £280,000, he would be a gamble.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are also monitoring his situation, which could drive up both the fee and the competition significantly.

For now, the World Cup is the perfect opportunity to remind Arsenal of his quality.