Arsenal - Andrea Berta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have reportedly made a significant contract offer to Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new season.
According to sources in Spain, the Gunners have offered the 22-year-old Spain international a deal worth £7.6 million per year, surpassing the terms proposed by Barcelona. Williams, who enjoyed another standout season with Bilbao, has attracted interest from several European giants, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Barça.
Arteta has placed a new winger high on his summer wishlist, alongside efforts to recruit a striker, with Arsenal already in talks with Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. Williams is considered a top target, and the North London club have reportedly made a “decisive move” by expressing willingness to meet his £48 million release clause.
READ MORE: Arsenal set to launch £42m bid for Moroccan forward this summer
Despite Arsenal’s financial commitment and interest, Williams is believed to be set on a move to Barcelona. Reports fromSport suggest the winger has ruled out joining any club other than the Catalan giants and could even take a pay cut to secure the transfer.
Nico Williams - Arsenal
Nico Williams (Image credit: Getty Images)
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is said to have personally spoken to Williams in an effort to convince him, with the player reportedly excited at the prospect of linking up with international teammates, including close friend Lamine Yamal.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Staying at Bilbao remains a possibility, as the Basque club have offered the winger a contract extension with improved terms and a higher release clause. However, given the level of interest and his reported preference for Barcelona, Bilbao are bracing for a potential departure.
Williams, who joined Athletic’s academy at the age of 11, now faces a critical decision on his future as Arsenal and Barcelona intensify efforts to secure his signature this summer.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal confirm pre-season plans with timeline to integrate new signings