Arsenal are exploring alternatives after missing out on top target Morgan Rogers who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa.
The Gunners were readying a move for Rogers before the Blues hijacked their deal and paid a British transfer record £117 million for the English attacker. This came as a blow for Mikel Arteta, who viewed him as an ideal player to bolster his attack.
There remains a focus on signing a left-winger and the club are pondering reigniting their interest in a former target. They have already sold Leandro Trossard, who joined Besiktas, and reports claim that Gabriel Martinelli is available for the right price.
Nico Williams Back on Arsenal's Radar
Nico Williams celebrating after scoring for Athletic Bilbao
Arsenal's search for a Rogers alternative has seen them reconsider Athletic Club's Nico Williams. MailSport reports that higher-ups have discussed moving for the Spanish winger.
Williams had been on the Gunners' radar last summer before signing a new eight-year contract extension. But the report claims that "there are rumblings" he could finally consider leaving his boyhood club this time around.
The 'astonishing' 24-year-old is one of Europe's most exciting attackers, boasting explosive pace and clinical finishing abilities. He finished last season with six goals and four assists in 24 La Liga games, having spent much of it on the sidelines.
David Ornstein claimed last year that Arteta particularly wanted to bring Williams to the Emirates. If the Premier League champions do move for the Spaniard they will only do so if the price is right.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
'Fantastic' Williams is the Right Profile For Arteta
Nico WilliamsAnnegret Hilse via Reuters
Williams has plenty of qualities that Arteta looks for from an attacker and he previously described him as a "fantastic player." He came off the bench to set Ferran Torres up in Spain's World Cup final win over Argentina.
Speaking of Torres, he's reportedly another name on Arsenal's shortlist, but again any move for the Barcelona star will be determined by the player's valuation. A pacey winger like Williams feels more necessary and he might be a cheaper option than Bradley Barcola.
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes celebrates vs Crystal Palace Related
Arsenal Will Listen to Offers For 'One of Arteta's Best Players' if Guimaraes Joins
The Gunners could part with a big name.
The Paris Saint-Germain star has become one of the Gunners' top targets after failing to sign Rogers. But Liverpool are also keen, and he could cost over £100m, which is probably not a price the North Londoners want to pay amid interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.