Long-term Mikel Arteta target could now help Arsenal win £50m Nico Williams transfer race

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal are not giving up their pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who was eyed by Mikel Arteta in the summer.

The Gunners weren’t the only side to show interest in Williams during the summer transfer window, given how superb the forward was at Euro 2024. 

Arsenal were prepared to sign Williams in preparation for the 2024/25 campaign however, despite great demand, the 22-year-old remained at his boyhood club.

While the Spaniard continues to impress in the Basque Country, those in North London remain on red alert regarding his future.

• READ MORE: Nico Williams reveals ‘the truth’ about his future after failed summer move

Arsenal remain interested in signing Nico Williams

Barcelona looked most likely to sign Williams in the summer but even a stay in Spain couldn’t tempt the Euro 2024 winner to leave Bilbao.

Things could change in 2025 however, as sources close to Arsenal Insider confirm that the Gunners remain on the winger’s tail. 

We understand that Arsenal continue to monitor Williams but are aware that it’s near impossible that the forward can be signed in the January transfer window.

As a result, Arteta remains eager to launch a move for the Spaniard in the summer of 2025, with his release clause being just £50m.

Sources tell us that Arsenal’s interest in Williams is ‘one to watch’ next summer as the player is regarded highly at the Emirates.

Raphinha could be key to Arsenal signing Williams 

As mentioned, Barcelona were eyeing Williams during the summer although one thing could give Arsenal a slim advantage in the future. 

Sources mention Raphinha’s form in Catalonia as being possibly decisive to whether Hansi Flick continues to chase Williams, with the Brazilian ranking as one of LaLiga’s best right now.

Raphinha has been on Arsenal’s radar since 2022 and now, the winger could help Arteta to land a different target in Williams, with the Bilbao star not regarded as a pressing need amid the former Leeds United ace’s form.

Arteta must take advantage of Williams’ release clause and Barcelona’s attention being on Raphinha in a bid to lure the 22-year-old to North London in the summer.