Arsenal are on the verge of completing another significant summer signing, with reports confirming that the Gunners are set to finalize the transfer of Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao in the coming months.
The winger has reportedly agreed to join Mikel Arteta’s side, with the club now closing in on a deal worth approximately €58 million (£48.3 million). This move follows an intense period of speculation, with Arsenal reportedly ready to meet Williams’ release clause and offer him a starring role in Arteta’s plans.
Despite long-standing interest from Barcelona, the 24-time capped Spain international has chosen to accept Arsenal’s offer, which has angered the Catalan giants who were confident of securing his signature last summer.
Williams, who has become one of the standout wingers in La Liga, has impressed with his performances for Athletic Bilbao. With his pace, creativity, and flair, he has made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Spain.
This has led to fierce competition for his services, and while Barcelona had been the front-runners, it now appears that Arsenal has won the race. The Gunners are prepared to make a “multimillion-dollar investment” to bring Williams to the Emirates, with sources confirming that the deal is “practically closed.” His entourage has reportedly held multiple meetings with Arsenal, and everything is pointing to the transfer being finalized in the coming months.
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The reported €58 million release clause in Williams’ contract is expected to be activated, marking a significant investment by Arsenal as they continue to strengthen their squad. Although some reports suggest that Arsenal may negotiate to spread the payments over a longer period, the release clause amount will likely be paid in full to secure Williams’ move.
Arsenal have positioned themselves as the club to beat in this transfer battle, with Arteta’s admiration for the player being a key factor in the deal. The Gunners’ willingness to pay the full clause reflects their serious intentions of securing the 21-year-old’s signature ahead of other suitors.
This move represents a major coup for Arsenal, especially after missing out on Ollie Watkins in January. The Gunners had made a bold bid for the Aston Villa striker, but their offer was swiftly rejected. While Arsenal’s failure to secure Watkins was disappointing, they are clearly undeterred, focusing instead on bolstering their attack in the summer.
Williams is now a priority target for Arteta, with the winger’s attributes perfectly complementing the attacking style the manager has cultivated at the Emirates. His arrival would provide Arsenal with an exciting, versatile attacking option to help boost their depth and creativity in the final third.
Growing Tensions between Arsenal and Barcelona
The transfer also comes amid growing tensions between Arsenal and Barcelona, with the Spanish giants reportedly viewing Williams’ move to North London as a “betrayal.” Barcelona had been hoping to land the winger last summer and were under the impression that Williams would wait for them.
However, with the player now set to join Arsenal, Barcelona’s hopes have been dashed, and the club’s board is reportedly upset about the situation. The Catalan club’s frustration underscores the importance of this deal for both Arsenal and Williams, as the winger will have the chance to fulfill his potential in the Premier League.
Looking ahead to the summer, Arsenal’s transfer business is far from over. In addition to Williams, the club closed the move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with a deal already in place. Arteta continues to focus on reinforcing his squad for a Premier League title push, and the addition of players like Williams and Zubimendi could prove pivotal. While Arsenal’s search for a top striker continues, with targets such as Lautaro Martinez and Jamal Musiala on the radar, securing Williams is a major step toward strengthening their attacking options ahead of next season.
