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Arsenal ‘really like’ Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams

By on August 23, 2024

Nico-Williams-Spain

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, as per the transfer expert David Ornstein.

After making David Raya’s loan move permanent, the Gunners have signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna this summer. Additionally, they are close to sealing a deal for Mikel Merino to strengthen the midfield.

However, it has been reported that the North London club are also interested in purchasing a new forward and it remains to be seen whether they eventually opt to do that over the next few days.

Speaking on Duncan Castles’ podcast, Ornstein has reported that Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s hierarchy ‘really like’ Williams and they would want to sign him to strengthen the attack.

The journalist says that apart from Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona are also keen on purchasing him, but the issue to sign him is his high wage.

Williams to Arsenal

The forward is already on a very high wage and he would want a salary hike to move to the Premier League. In addition, he has a £49m release clause in his current contract and the clause needs to be triggered in full.

So, Ornstein says that it would be difficult for Arsenal to get the deal done, therefore he is looking likely to remain at his boyhood club.

He said:

“The one that Mikel Arteta & those involved at Arsenal really like is Nico Williams, but he’s the apple of everybody’s eye such as Chelsea and Barcelona.”

“The problem there is he’s already on a really high wage, which would only increase when he comes to a league such as the Premier League & a release clause in his contract that would need to be paid in full. It would appear he’s going to be staying.”

After coming through Athletic Bilbao’s youth system, the 22-year-old has established himself as a talismanic figure for Ernesto Valverde’s side in recent years. In addition, he has already showcased his qualities on the international stage, helping Spain win the European Championship last month.

He is quick, strong, technically sound, can dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, can link-up the play, has the ability to create opportunities for fellow attackers, can finish off his chances and also works extremely hard without possession.

Therefore, Williams’ addition would definitely strengthen the North London club’s attacking department if they purchase him. However, it doesn’t look likely that they will be able to secure his signature before the end of this transfer window.