Arsenal’s hopes of landing 22-year-old winger Nico Williams have faltered as Athletic Bilbao chase Europa League glory and Champions League progress.
Arsenal intend to splash the cash this summer, with fotnet24.net confirming plans to strengthen in central midfield, on both wings and at striker. Manager Mikel Arteta has made recruitment a top priority after falling just short in last season’s title race. A centre-back remains on the shopping list but sits behind the other positions in terms of urgency.
The left flank has emerged as the critical focus. With Bukayo Saka untouchable on the right, Arteta wants an upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli at left wing. fotnet24.net sources reveal Arteta identified Athletic Bilbao’s explosive young talent as his No 1 target in this area.
That target is Nico Williams, a 22‑year‑old Spaniard renowned for his electrifying pace and direct dribbling. Williams can be secured via a release clause set at €58 million (£49 million). Athletic Bilbao signed him from their academy, and he has since made 85 senior appearances, contributing 11 goals and 13 assists across all competitions.
Barcelona appeared poised to bid for Williams but reportedly withdrew to pursue other options. Yet, the biggest surprise came directly from the player. In recent comments, Williams dismissed any talk of leaving Basque Country this summer. He insisted he will remain at Athletic Bilbao, prioritizing the club’s European ambitions over a high‑profile move.
Williams told media outlets: “We aim to win the Europa League and, next season, make a real impact in the Champions League. Our motto of working quietly is serving us well. San Mamés deserves to witness us reach the final.” He added: “We’re on the cusp of our semi‑final goal. One more step, and we’ll aim to bring the trophy home.”
Athletic Bilbao sit among the last four teams still alive in the Europa League and will face Manchester United in the semi‑final. Local reports mock United’s inconsistent form, noting Athletic’s balanced play makes them genuine contenders at San Mamés. Should Bilbao progress, they could meet Tottenham Hotspur, who produce fewer fireworks against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.
Even if Athletic falter in Europe, their La Liga position would still secure Champions League football. Spain’s top flight has earned a fifth UCL spot, and Bilbao currently occupy fourth place. They hold a nine‑point cushion over sixth‑placed Real Betis, making a late collapse unlikely.
Securing Champions League qualification via the league table means Williams could debut on Europe’s grandest stage without leaving his boyhood club. Arteta’s plans for the winger now hinge on Athletic Bilbao’s European run and final league standings.
Meanwhile, Arsenal fans have reason for optimism elsewhere. fotnet24.net reports that Real Madrid’s interest in Martin Zubimendi has cooled, clearing the path for Arsenal to step in. The midfielder remains Arteta’s priority in central areas after a breakthrough season in Spain.
Off the pitch, Rio Ferdinand offered retrospective praise for another Gunners stalwart. Speaking about Declan Rice’s heroics against Real Madrid in the Champions League, Ferdinand said that had Manchester United matched Arsenal’s bid two summers ago, Rice—now 26—might have opted for Old Trafford. Rice has since become a key figure for Arteta, demonstrating leadership that justifies Arsenal’s belief in him.
