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Mikel Arteta keen on signing Nico Williams at Arsenal

By on March 13, 2026

Nico-Williams-Spain

Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen on signing Athletic Club forward Nico Williams at Arsenal, as per Spanish outlet Fichajes.

The 23-year-old came into the spotlight having displayed impressive performances during the 2023/24 campaign, guiding his side to win the Copa del Rey.

He even helped Spain win the European Championship in 2024. Following that, he has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. However, Williams eventually decided to sign a long-term contract until 2035 at San Mames Stadium last summer.

Now, Fichajes state that Athletic Club are prepared to cash-in on their biggest asset this summer following his inconsistent performances due to persistent injury problems this season.

The player has an £82m release clause in his current contract, but Ernesto Valverde’s side are ready to accept a discount price of around £69m.

Mikel Arteta is prepared to let Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard leave during the offseason and is eager to upgrade the left flank by purchasing Williams. So, the Spanish boss has asked Arsenal to keep a close eye on Williams’ situation.

However, the report claim that the North London club will have to overcome fierce competition to finalise the operation as Manchester United and Chelsea are also in this race.

Williams to Arsenal

The Blues are planning to build an attacking midfield trio of Cole Palmer, Estevao Willian, and Williams, and are ready to cash-in on Alejandro Garnacho to create room for the Spaniard. But the Red Devils are currently leading the race to sign Williams.

Arsenal hold a long-standing interest in the Athletic Club star as they reportedly attempted to sign him in the last two summer windows and are seemingly looking to make a move once again this year.

Williams is a left-winger by trait but can provide cover on the opposite side if needed. He is quick, technically sound, can dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, and is efficient in creating opportunities for fellow attackers.

Despite his recent fitness problems, he is a top-class player and would be a great coup for Arsenal should they purchase him.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually manage to lure him to the Emirates club ahead of the next campaign.