Arsenal have intensified their pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams with a lucrative £7.6 million-per-year contract proposal. The 22-year-old remains one of Mikel Arteta’s key summer targets as the club aims to bolster their wide attacking options. However, Arsenal face stiff competition, particularly from Barcelona, where the player reportedly wishes to move.
Despite the Gunners’ willingness to activate Williams’ £53 million release clause, the winger’s strong desire to stay in Spain complicates matters. Conversations with Barcelona have already taken place, including private discussions with manager Hansi Flick. The Spanish giants remain interested but are only prepared to act if the price fits within their financial structure.
Williams, who has been with Bilbao since childhood, is also considering a contract extension with the Basque club. Bilbao have responded to the growing interest by offering improved terms that include a higher salary and increased release clause. His long-standing loyalty to the club keeps that option viable.
Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to push for offensive reinforcements, having already begun negotiations for strikers Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko. The north London side are also closing in on a £51 million move for Spain international Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, aiming for a broader squad revamp.
Barcelona, on the other hand, are juggling multiple wide-attacking targets. Deco, the club’s sporting director, remains interested in both Marcus Rashford and Luis Diaz. While Diaz is reportedly unavailable for transfer from Liverpool, Rashford—after reviving his form at Aston Villa on loan—is considered a strong option and could be signed for around £40 million.
Although Williams is seen as a cost-effective and promising long-term addition, his connection with teammates like Lamine Yamal and his willingness to lower his wage demands for a Barcelona move underline his clear preference. Still, with the transfer window heating up, neither a stay at Bilbao nor a Premier League move can be ruled out just yet.