Arsenal have emerged as the best-placed English club to land one of European football’s most exciting young attackers this summer, with Nico Williams firmly in their sights.
The Spain international, who starred for his country at Euro 2024, remains a top target for the Gunners despite his mammoth contract at Athletic Club. According to Football Insider, Arsenal are currently leading the race to secure the 23-year-old’s signature in what would be a statement signing for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Williams came agonisingly close to joining Barcelona last summer. He held multiple rounds of talks with sporting director Deco, and Lamine Yamal was particularly eager to reunite with his Spain teammate at club level. However, in a dramatic late twist, Williams stunned the Catalan giants by committing his future to Athletic, signing an incredible 10-year contract.
That decision has been followed by a stop-start campaign at San Mamés. Hampered by injury issues, the winger has managed just four goals and six assists in 26 appearances this season. Yet those numbers belie his enduring quality. Widely regarded as one of Europe’s most dynamic attackers, Williams is still expected to eventually move on to a genuine elite club — and Arsenal are well positioned to make that happen.
The deal includes a hefty £87million (€100m / $116m) release clause, giving any interested party a clear figure to work with. Arsenal, who made contact for Williams last summer, remain big admirers. Intermediaries have informed the club that the player is now open to considering a transfer once again this summer.
Barcelona, though initially hurt by Williams’ U-turn, have reportedly warmed to the idea of re-engaging. Real Madrid, who have tracked the winger for several years, could also enter the fray, setting up a potentially fierce battle for his services.
Athletic Club’s managing director, Mikel Gonzalez, has previously labelled Williams “world-class,” a tag few would dispute given his electric pace, directness, and ability to produce moments of magic on the biggest stage — evidenced by his goal in the Euro 2024 final against England.
Not the only high-profile target
Williams is not the only £87m-rated wide player on Arsenal’s radar. The club are also monitoring RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, who has also attracted interest from Liverpool and Manchester United. In addition, sources indicate Arsenal are considering a £75m (€86m / $100m) bid for Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon. However, the Magpies are expected to mount a strong fight to retain the England international, particularly after losing Alexander Isak to Liverpool last year.
For Arsenal, signing Williams would represent a major statement of intent. A proven performer at international level and still only 23, he possesses the flair, work rate, and versatility to elevate an already talented attacking group. While the release clause ensures a straightforward path to an agreement in principle, convincing the player to choose the Premier League over renewed interest from Spain’s biggest clubs will be the true test.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on north London to see if Arsenal can turn their long-standing admiration for Nico Williams into a concrete deal.