Arsenal’s pursuit of Athletic Club winger Nico Williams is set to come at a significant financial cost, as reports suggest the club will need to offer him a salary on par with their highest earners to complete the deal. According to _[The Telegraph](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/04/03/arsenal-nico-williams-transfer-top-earner-athletic-bilbao/)_, representatives of the Spanish international expect him to be placed in the same wage bracket as Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka, all of whom are believed to earn around £250,000 per week.
### **A Major Investment for Arsenal**
The Gunners have been long-term admirers of Williams, who has impressed with his electric pace, dribbling ability, and versatility on the flanks. The 22-year-old has established himself as one of La Liga’s most exciting talents and has already attracted interest from several top European clubs. However, Arsenal are reportedly leading the race for his signature, provided they are willing to meet his financial demands.
Williams’ contract with Athletic Club includes a release clause believed to be in the region of €50 million (£42.5 million), a relatively affordable figure for a player of his caliber. But the bigger challenge for Arsenal will be agreeing on personal terms, with his representatives making it clear that any move would require a substantial salary package.
### **Balancing the Wage Structure**
Offering Williams a contract in the same bracket as Arsenal’s top stars would represent a major commitment from the club. Players like Ødegaard, Rice, Saka, and Havertz are established leaders in the squad, and matching their wages for a new signing could create potential dressing room dynamics to consider.
Arsenal have been careful with their wage structure in recent years, ensuring that new arrivals do not disrupt the balance within the squad. However, with Williams’ talent and market value continuing to rise, Arsenal may have to break their traditional approach to secure his services.
### **A Statement Signing for the Future**
Despite the financial implications, signing Williams would be a major statement from Arsenal as they look to strengthen their squad for the long term. His arrival would provide Arteta with another explosive attacking option, potentially forming a devastating frontline alongside Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus.
Moreover, Williams’ ability to play on either wing would add valuable depth, allowing Arteta to rotate his squad effectively in a demanding season with Premier League and Champions League commitments.
### **Competition for His Signature**
While Arsenal are keen on Williams, they are not alone in the race. Barcelona and several Premier League clubs have also been linked with the winger, meaning Arsenal will need to act decisively if they want to secure him.
If the Gunners are willing to meet his wage demands, they could have a significant advantage over their competitors. With Arteta’s project continuing to grow and Arsenal re-establishing themselves as a European force, Williams could see North London as the perfect next step in his career.
Now, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will push forward with the deal and commit to making Williams one of their highest-paid players.