Nico Williams latest update now makes chances of Arsenal sealing £49m transfer a lot clearer

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The future of Nico Williams is edging closer to being decided, as Arsenal remain in the race to secure the winger’s signature. 

It is no secret that Arsenal are keen on signing Nico Williams in this summer transfer window. 

Indeed, there is plenty of interest in the Athletic Bilbao winger at this time. Not only did the 22-year-old enjoy a fine campaign with the Spanish side last season, racking up 8 goals and 19 assists, but he also lit up Euro 2024 this summer.

Williams was electrifying on the flank for Spain, as they won every game they played in the competition, ultimately beating England in the final in Berlin. Williams scored in that final.

Mikel Arteta will have been keeping a close eye on the 22-year-old over the course of the tournament. Arsenal have since made an effort to sign Williams. However, there is plenty of competition for his signature, and Barcelona seem to be the club in pole position to strike a deal as things stand. 

Now, the latest report to provide an update on the what the future may hold for the 20-cap Spain international has made it clear that the Gunners face a tough task in bringing him to North London this summer.

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

Arsenal expected to miss out on signing Nico Williams

According to a report in The Mirror (21/07/2024, page 74), Athletic Bilbao are confident that they will be able to retain Williams’ services, as the play has admitted that he is happy with the Basque club. 

If he were to be prised away, Barcelona remains his most likely destination, as part of a £49 million switch. Meanwhile, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all set to miss out, amid concerns about the attacker’s wage demands. 

Arsenal have already been warned against signing Williams this summer, due to the fact that his salary would not fit in with the club’s existing wage structure, which could easily cause problems in the Emirates Stadium dressing room. 

However, there is no getting away from the fact that Williams would be a hugely exciting addition to Arteta’s ranks, and that he would provide some much-needed cover and competition for the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Bukayo Saka, as he is able to operate on either flank. 

Plenty of Arsenal fans will still be hoping that the Gunners find a way to sign Williams this summer, even though the odds are decidedly against such an outcome.