Athletic Bilbao remain in Arsenal's sights for Nico Williams
Arsenal have not ruled out signing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Spanish outlet Sport reports the Gunners maintain interest despite the player’s contract renewal last summer.
Williams agreed a 10-year deal with Athletic in 2025, but his season was blighted by injuries. He made just 32 appearances for the club, though he contributed 13 goals or assists across all competitions. His World Cup 2026 campaign with Spain included a key assist in the final against Argentina, setting up Ferran Torres’ winner.
Why Arsenal want Nico Williams
Arsenal are looking to strengthen the left wing after signing Christos Tzolis. Morgan Rogers was their first target, but Chelsea pipped them with a £117 million deal. Now the London side are scouting alternatives.
Williams fits Arteta’s profile: pace and dribbling. The manager had tracked him before. Yet his injury record -missing 20 matches in 2025-26- and his £77 million release clause complicate a move.
The figures holding up a transfer
Athletic are demanding £282,000 per week for Williams. Only Bukayo Saka earns more at Arsenal. His recent form doesn’t justify a salary above the club’s graduates.
The club also favours lower-risk signings. At 24, Williams carries fitness concerns after an uneven season. The board is weighing whether his profile justifies the outlay.
What Athletic Bilbao say
The Basque club has not publicly reacted to the reports. Williams remains central to Luis de la Fuente’s plans, earning a call-up to Spain’s World Cup 2026 squad.
His 2025 renewal ties him to Athletic until 2035. The club backs his growth, but Arsenal’s interest adds pressure to any future negotiations.
