Arsenal may well feel that they need not give up on trying to sign Nico Williams this summer just yet.
Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster Arsenal’s attacking contingent in this transfer window.
Whilst the Gunners’ first choice options across their front line are strong, they could do with extra strength in depth at the top of the pitch. With Eddie Nketiah eager to leave Arsenal, the North London club’s pool of attacking options could soon become smaller.
On top of that, Arteta clearly lacks faith in Reiss Nelson, who was only afforded one Premier League start last season. The Hale End academy graduate is another that the Gunners would surely be open to moving on this summer.
Some Arsenal fans are giving up on Martinelli, too. The Brazilian winger was far from his best last season and has struggled to rediscover any kind of sparkling form in pre-season. It could be that some additional competition is exactly what he needs.
Arsenal would love Nico Williams to come to the Emirates Stadium to provide said competition, for Bukayo Saka as well, as the Spaniard is comfortable operating on either flank.
Williams sparkled at Euro 2024 this summer, scoring in the final against England as he helped Spain to win the competition. The 22-year-old would bring creativity, flair, blistering pace, and extra goal threat to Arteta’s squad.
Arsenal were warned against signing Williams earlier this summer, due to his wage demands. However, the Athletic Bilbao man has all the makings of a future superstar, and if the opportunity to secure his services this summer exists, then the Gunners have to take it.
Arsenal get boost in Nico Williams race
Whilst Barcelona have shown an interest in the attacker, Williams is expected to stay at Athletic Bilbao.
Despite that, the manager of the La Liga club, Ernest Valverde, has now confessed that he cannot guarantee that the forward won’t still be moved on.
As quoted by Sport, he said: “The market is open. We have players like Nico who are doing well here, but the market is open until the 30th, so that we and the rest of the teams can improve their squads. I see Nico in very good shape.
“That Nico can continue with us this season is important in terms of our own self-esteem. I don’t know what can happen.”
Clearly, Athletic Bilbao would be reluctant to let Williams go, but the possibility for his departure certainly exists.
Arsenal must push for Williams now
The Gunners must respond to these words with actions. Williams could be a game-changing signing for Arsenal, taking Arteta’s side to the next level ahead of the forthcoming title race.
Sporting director Edu must now make signing Williams a top priority.
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