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Arsenal receive big boost in pursuit of Nico Williams
Arsenal have received a big boost in the pursuit of Athletic Club ace Nico Williams, as per transfer journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Gunners have been on the trail of the Spain international since last summer. However, they eventually failed to secure his service ahead of this season. Barcelona were also in for him, but he remained at San Mamés Stadium.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a productive campaign last term and even won the Copa del Rey trophy. Furthermore, he helped Spain become the European Champions last summer.
The forward started this season slowly but has been in excellent form in recent months, guiding his team to finish in the top four. He has made 18 goal contributions in all competitions.
Reporting on TBR Football, Bailey says that despite failing to hire him last summer, Arsenal haven’t given up on their hopes of signing him and have been pushing to persuade him to join.
Williams to Arsenal
The Spain international is open to moving to the Premier League this season, and Arsenal are at the ‘front of the queue’ to secure his service. Therefore, this is a huge boost for the North London club to sign their long-term target.
However, purchasing the forward won’t be easy as Chelsea are also in this race and have placed themselves as one of the favourites to seal the deal.
Moreover, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Newcastle United are also keen on signing him and have held talks with the player’s representatives over this deal.
Bailey states that although Williams is ready to move to England this season, he could change his mind if Athletic Club qualify for the Champions League next season, and they are looking all set to play in this competition next season.
Williams has a £49m release clause in his current contract and earns £168,000-a-week in salary at his boyhood club. Therefore, Arsenal will have to make a significant financial commitment to get the deal done.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are the two left-wingers Arsenal currently have, but Mikel Arteta is seeking an upgrade, and Williams would be a shrewd acquisition should they eventually manage to purchase him in the upcoming transfer window.