Arsenal Intensify Pursuit of Athletic Bilbao Star Nico Williams Amid Barcelona Interest

Gunners Eye £60M Deal for Euro 2024 Standout

Arsenal are reportedly ramping up efforts to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who has also attracted strong interest from Barcelona. The 22-year-old Spanish international, a standout performer at Euro 2024, played a key role in helping Spain secure their fourth European Championship title, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.

Williams, who scored in the final against England with an assist from Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, has become one of the most sought-after talents in Europe. Despite signing a new contract with Athletic Bilbao last December, speculation surrounding his future in the Basque region has intensified.

Nico Williams celebrates after scoring against in England in Euro 2024

Barcelona, struggling with financial difficulties, have been keen to bring Williams to Camp Nou but face significant hurdles. The Catalan club has already signed Dani Olmo for £50 million but has been unable to register him due to their ongoing financial constraints. This situation forced them to offload Ilkay Gundogan to Manchester City for free, further complicating their pursuit of Williams, who remains a top target for club president Joan Laporta.

Arsenal, however, appear ready to capitalize on Barcelona’s financial woes. The Gunners have reportedly reignited their interest in Williams this week, with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his squad as they look to challenge Premier League champions Manchester City. According to reports from Spain, Arsenal are prepared to trigger Williams’ release clause, believed to be around £60 million, in a move that could deliver a significant blow to Barcelona’s transfer plans.

Chelsea has also shown interest in Williams, but their focus remains elsewhere after spending over £200 million this summer.

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Arsenal’s pursuit of Williams follows their imminent acquisition of Real Sociedad and Spain midfielder Mikel Merino. If successful, the addition of Williams would represent a major coup for Arteta, offering an upgrade to the Gunners’ current left-wing options, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, and potentially closing the gap on Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

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