Arsenal are in the market for a winger, and Athletic Bilbao sensation Nico Williams is on Mikel Arteta’s radar.
Williams has been named as a target for Arsenal in recent months after a standout campaign at Athletic Club, in which the 21-year-old helped his side win the Copa Del Rey.
The winger has also impressed for Spain at Euro 2024, with a sensational performance against Italy in the group stage, and he is attracting interest from several clubs.
With a release clause of around £50m, the attacker would represent a bargain for any club who signs him given his form, ability and potential, and the fact that he has excelled on both wings makes him ideal for Arteta.
Williams could add the speed and goal threat that has sometimes been lacking in the Arsenal squad on the left wing, whilst also providing cover for Bukayo Saka on the right. However, despite Arsenal being reportedly prepared to activate his release clause, it now appears unlikely that he will move to the Emirates this summer.
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams prefers move to Barcelona over Arsenal
HITC transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now told Arsenal Insider that despite Arteta’s interest in Williams, the Spain international is keen on a move to Barcelona instead.
“The main problem with Nico Williams, which is what every club is finding, is that he wants to join Barcelona. That’s the problem,” Bailey revealed.
“If Arsenal thought they could get him, they’d be pursuing it. The main problem is that he wants to go to Barcelona. And that’s as simple as that, he really does want to go.
Recent reports suggested that wages were the stumbling block for Williams potentially joining Arsenal, but his preference reportedly has little do with his salary demands.
“Williams is on a big deal at Athletic Bilbao, so he doesn’t have to leave yet. What I’m told, is the way that Williams has been playing in the Spanish team, with Lamine Yamal – it’s only intensified. Barcelona’s interest in bringing him in.”
Can an Arsenal move for Nico Williams be ruled out?
Barcelona are currently facing financial issues, and would have to shift several players to generate the finances necessary to bring Williams in.
If they cannot do that this summer, then it seems likely that Williams will remain at San Mames. He is enjoying playing alongside his brother Inaki Williams, and Ernesto Valverde’s side will be competing in Europe next season.
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Arsenal’s project is an enticing one though, and if Arteta continues to try and convince Williams over a move, then nothing can be ruled out. However, Arsenal are well aware that his preference is to join Barcelona instead, and given that his head appears to be set on this move, it does feel likely that alternative targets, such as PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko, may be explored.
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