Arteta ‘preference’ revealed as Arsenal have target to challenge Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli

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Arsenal have now identified a top target to pursue this summer if Mikel Arteta decides to make signing a winger a top priority. 

There is certainly an argument that Arsenal need to strengthen their options in the wide areas in this summer transfer window. 

In Bukayo Saka the Gunners boast one of the best wingers in the Premier League. However, they lack quality back up for the 22-year-old, as Mikel Arteta clearly lacks faith in Reiss Nelson. 

Arsenal are now open to offers for Nelson, which will leave the North London club even shorter on numbers in this part of the pitch, should he depart.

On the left flank, Arsenal have Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli as options. However, Martinelli’s form took a dip last season, whilst Arteta has endured a fractious relationship with Trossard in the past. 

Gabriel Jesus also represents an option than can be deployed on either wing, but the manager has tended to use the Brazilian as a striker, and he has also been beset with injury issues.

A versatile winger, who can operate on either flank and is of a good enough standard to challenge for a starting role, would represent an ideal signing for Arsenal this summer.

• READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Mikel Arteta wants Nico Williams at Arsenal

Arsenal have been credited with an interest in Nico Williams. The winger has dazzled at Euro 2024 for Spain this summer, and would be an exciting addition to Arteta’s squad. 

It would now seem that the Athletic Bilbao man represents something of a priority for the Spanish coach too. As reported by The Athletic: “If Arsenal are to sign a wide player, Nico Williams would be Arteta’s preference.”

However, Arsenal have been warned off making a move for Williams, as the 21-year-old’s wage demands would not fit in with the North London club’s existing wage structure and may spark issues within the dressing room.

However, if the Gunners can find a way to resolve this issue, then it is easy to see what Williams would bring to the club.

Why Williams could take Arsenal to next level

As he is able to play on either wing, Williams could compete for game time with Saka and Martinelli. He would certainly force that duo to be at their best in order to keep a regular starting place in the team.

The Spaniard boasts blistering pace, flair, and has an eye for goal. Given his age it is reasonable to expect him to keep getting better and better too.