Andrea Berta has reportedly initiated talks to sign Nico Williams, although Arsenal will face competition from Barcelona and Chelsea for the Athletic Club winger.
According to a report by The Guardian, Nico Williams is the subject of interest from Arsenal. Andrea Berta has initiated the move to sign the UEFA Euro 2024 winner from Athletic Club after initiating the discussions for a deal. The Spanish international has a release clause worth €58 million in his contract, with Barcelona and Chelsea also keen on signing him in the summer transfer window.
The rise and rise of Nico Williams
Nico Williams has established himself as one of the best young prospects in the world since breaking into the first-team squad at Athletic Club. The Spaniard has gone from strength to strength in the last few years, becoming a mainstay in the final third for his club and country.
The 22-year-old was slow off the blocks in the 2024/25 season but has recovered well in recent weeks. Williams has contributed to 16 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions, finding the back of the net nine times and providing seven assists. Meanwhile, the youngster’s exploits have piqued the attention of several European bigwigs, including Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea.
What next?
Barcelona mulled over signing the UEFA Euro 2024 winner last summer before the deal failed to see the light of day. The continued interest makes sense, considering Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres face an uncertain future at the Catalan club. So, the Spanish international is a viable target for FC Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s interest in Nico Williams is understandable. The West London club might part ways with Jadon Sancho in the summer transfer window, while Mykhailo Mudryk’s long-term future is uncertain due to his doping ban. So, the Athletic Club winger is an option worth considering for Chelsea.
As for Arsenal, Mikel Arteta’s team has been over-dependent on Bukayo Saka in the final third. So, the Gunners need another productive attacker, with the 22-year-old Spaniard emerging as a viable target. Andrea Berta has initiated the move to sign Williams after holding initial talks with his representatives.
The Spanish international will not cost a bomb, as his contract with Athletic Club has a release clause worth €58 million. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal can beat Barcelona and Chelsea to the UEFA Euro 2024 winner in the summer transfer window.