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Arsenal identify Nico Williams as ‘preferred’ option

By Ritayan Chatterjee on June 21, 2024

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams this summer, as per The Athletic.

The 21-year-old has already showcased glimpses of his qualities in La Liga but he has now started to prove his worth on the international stage as well.

After his impressive performances in the Spanish top-flight in recent times, he already secured his place in Spain national team but, Luis de la Fuente has now given him the first-team berth.

The youngster started both games for his country in the ongoing European Championship and displayed an excellent performance against Italy last night – where his team won the game 1-0.

So, it appears having been impressed by his recent eye-catching performances, Arsenal are planning to step up their efforts to lure him to the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners expressed their interest in signing him last summer but didn’t make a concrete approach.

Williams to Arsenal

According to the report by The Athletic, Arsenal are planning to make a swoop to sign the Athletic Bilbao star as Mikel Arteta sees the youngster as ‘one of his preferred options’ to reinforce the frontline.

The 21-year-old reportedly has a £49m release clause in his current contract so the North London club will have to splash big money to secure his signature this summer.

Williams is a versatile forward as he is comfortable playing in either flank. He is quick, strong, technically sound, has the ability to dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, can finish off his opportunities, has the ability to create chances for fellow attackers and also works extremely hard without possession.

Gabriel Martinelli failed to showcase his best last term, while Bukayo Saka doesn’t have a deputy to help him manage his workload. So signing a new winger would be the right decision for Arsenal and Williams would be a great acquisition if they purchase him.

However, it has recently started to emerge that Arsenal aren’t the only club interested in signing him. So, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club can eventually manage to purchase the Spain international in this transfer window to reinforce their attacking department.