Arsenal look to have been offered the chance to sign Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, with Barcelona content with their current crop of attacking options.
The Gunners are in the market for at least two more signings this summer, with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his midfield ranks with the acquisition of Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino and sign an alternative option out wide.
Several stars have been shortlisted by Arsenal, though Euro 2024 hero Williams remains one of the top options. The Spain international is said to have a £47million release clause in his contract, which looks to be a bargain in today’s bargain – although his wage demands are significant.
Barcelona have been pushing to sign Williams for the past few months, and their interest has not faltered despite the acquisition of Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig. However, Barca president Joan Laporta appears resigned to not signing the winger.
According to Spanish news outlet COPE, Laporta told a group of fans ‘We already have a good squad,’ after being told to sign Williams in a telling statement which may open the door for transfer hijacks from elsewhere.
Barcelona’s financial difficulties have made it difficult for them to strike a deal with Bilbao and Williams, though Premier League outfits may be able to overcome those issues.
Arsenal have been linked with the 22-year-old on several occasions and luring him away from the La Liga would be a major sign of intent from the club given that the versatile forward is one of the most highly regarded prospects in world football.
Williams is capable of playing on either wing and through the middle when required, and his versatility is likely to prove very attractive given that Arteta is keen to sign players who can cover numerous positions.
The Gunners are expected to offload several stars in the final few weeks of the transfer window, with Eddie Nketiah attracting interest from a host of Premier League sides, including Bournemouth.
Reiss Nelson has been heavily linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium as well, with Leicester City and West Ham among his admirers. The winger has slipped down the pecking order under Arteta over the past 12 months, and he will continue to struggle for minutes if Williams joins the north London outfit.
