Arsenal has selected Nico Williams as their top target to enhance their attack this summer, but they must overcome a number of serious challenges if they are to acquire him.
The Athletic Bilbao winger boosted his budding reputation during Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign, culminating in a goal in the final against England.
Prior to the Euros, there was much speculation about the 21-year-old’s future, but with teams returning to pre-season training, the player will be hoping for a quick conclusion.
For their part, Arsenal started the summer with the intention of adding a new center forward to bolster their current group. However, with Benjamin Sesko choosing to stay at RB Leipzig and Alexander Isak being unachievable, focus has shifted to adding a dynamic wide forward.
Williams’ versatility as a flanker appeals strongly to Mikel Arteta, who needs a player to cover Gabriel Martinelli and give competition for Bukayo Saka.
With his contract containing a €58million release clause, Williams represents an affordable option, but that fee needs to be paid up front and in full before it can be triggered.
Having spent significantly over the last two summer windows, Arsenal are being more circumspect during the current transfer window are likely to need to sell one of their current attacking players before they buy.
Fulham have already seen one significant offer for Emile Smith Rowe rejected and are expected to return with an improved offer closer to Arsenal’s £40m asking price.
Even were Arsenal’s warchest to be boosted to that extent, agreeing a deal and beating the competition would be far from straightforward.
Williams’ preference is understood to be to remain in Spain where Barcelona are hoping to unite him with his international teammate Lamine Yamal.
Speaking earlier this week, Barcelona chief Joan Laporta said: “’oday Barca could cope financially with a signing like Nico Williams.’
According to The Athletic, however, that statement is understood to have irked several Barcelona players, some of whom have not been registered to play in La Liga due to various contract situations.
Williams, meanwhile, has several Premier League suitors with Chelsea chief among them.
The Blues are understood to have already put in significant groundwork as they attempt to explore the possibility of a deal for Williams, despite their squad already boasting the likes of Mykhailo Mudryk, Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke.