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Arsenal ready to rival Barcelona to sign Nico Williams

By Ritayan Chatterjee on July 19, 2024

Arsenal are reportedly ready to rival Barcelona over a deal to sign Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams this summer, as per the transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Spaniard has been attracting a lot of attention from several big clubs around Europe after displaying his qualities for club and country in recent months.

The Gunners are said to be looking to reinforce their frontline by signing Williams but it has been suggested that Mikel Arteta’s side aren’t the only club in this race as Barcelona are also keen on purchasing him.

The Blaugrana have reportedly opened talks with the player’s representatives to persuade him to join but it seems Arsenal haven’t given up on their hopes of purchasing him.

Writing on GiveMeSport, Jones has reported that Barcelona feel they are in a strong position financially to sign Williams by triggering his £50m release clause but Arsenal are waiting in the wings to sign him should the player’s move to the Catalan giants eventually don’t materialise.

Williams to Arsenal

The journalist further claims that Arsenal are ‘genuine admirers’ of the Spain international and the player already knows about the North London club’s interest.

Jones says that Williams is open to moving to Barcelona but Arsenal are hopeful of luring him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

The 22-year-old is a versatile player as he is comfortable playing on either flank. He is an explosive winger and is efficient in dribbling past opposition defenders in tight areas.

Additionally, he has the ability to finish off his chances, create chances for fellow attackers and also works hard without possession. So, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal if they purchase him.

Arteta’s side already have Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli but providing a competition like Williams could elevate the duo’s performance next season.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually manage to secure the youngster’s signature if he eventually leaves the Basque club in this transfer window.

Meanwhile, after finishing second in back-to-back campaigns, it remains to be seen whether Arteta can finally manage to guide his team to win the Premier League title next season.