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Arsenal keeping tabs on Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams

By Ritayan Chatterjee on February 12, 2024

Arsenal have reportedly been keeping a close eye on the development of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams ahead of a potential swoop this summer, as per the transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Gunners prioritised signing a new winger to reinforce their forward line last winter. Mykhailo Mudryk was seemingly their priority target but they eventually missed out on securing his signature to Chelsea.

Williams was also mentioned as a serious option for the North London club but they eventually opted to sign Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Hove Albion.

Although the Belgian has established himself as an important player in Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad, he hasn’t been able to play regularly for Arsenal on the flanks, rather he has been used in the midfield or the false nine role.

So, it appears Arsenal are contemplating signing a new winger during the off-season to bolster the attack. Speaking to Caught Offside, Romano has reported that Arteta’s side have sent scouts multiple times to watch Wiliams in action closely before making a potential swoop for him.

Williams to Arsenal

The journalist further claims that Williams is a ‘very good’ player and possesses the necessary attributes to flourish in the Premier League so he could be a shrewd signing for the Gunners if they purchase him.

However, Romano states that Chelsea have also been eyeing a swoop for the Spaniard so Arsenal are set to face tough competition from their city rivals in getting any potential deal done for Williams this summer.

Romano said:

“Arsenal have also sent their scouts to follow Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao multiple times, and it’s the same for Chelsea as they included him in the list last summer. The race is completely open, and nothing is advanced with either club so far. He’d be great in the Premier League in my opinion – a physical and technical player; very good one.”

Williams reportedly has a £43m release clause included in his current contract so Arsenal could manage to secure his signature for a reasonable fee should they formalise their interest.

However, it remains to be seen whether the North London club eventually opt to make a concrete approach to sign the Athletic Bilbao star in the upcoming transfer window.