Mikel Arteta Targets Nico Williams as Top Summer Transfer Priority
As the season unfolded, it became evident that Arsenal need to bolster their attacking options. The injury crisis faced by the Gunners has left Mikel Arteta without key players like Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli for significant periods. Although Martinelli has returned to fitness, he remains the club’s only recognized attacker as the Premier League title race nears its conclusion.
Arteta has long been eyeing Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams as a potential solution to Arsenal’s attacking woes. According to reports from BILD, the Arsenal manager is determined to make the Spanish winger his marquee signing in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Williams, who delivered an outstanding performance during Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph alongside Lamine Yamal, has attracted interest from several top clubs across Europe. Arsenal and Barcelona both failed to secure his signature last summer, but the Gunners remain keen on pursuing him. However, they now face competition from Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich in the race to sign the talented winger.
Arsenal Open Talks to Sign Nico Williams
The Gunners have reportedly taken the first step by initiating discussions with Williams’ representatives. The 21-year-old has a release clause in his contract ranging between £48 million and £67 million—a potentially bargain price for one of the world’s most promising attacking talents.
Arteta is eager to prioritize the signing of an attacker as Arsenal once again find themselves narrowly missing out on the Premier League title, reminiscent of the last two seasons. Williams has been in impressive form for Athletic Bilbao this campaign, contributing nine goals and seven assists.
In addition to Williams, Arsenal are also closing in on the signing of another Spain international, midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
The potential acquisition of Nico Williams would be a significant statement of intent from Arsenal as they aim to bridge the gap to the league’s elite and challenge for major honors in the near future.
Photo Credit: Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
