Arsenal must look to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer to bolster their chances of lifting a major trophy next season.
The Gunners fell short again this term, marking a fifth consecutive year without silverware. Boss Mikel Arteta has restored Arsenal’s place among Europe’s elite, but fans are demanding more tangible success, and many feel the 2025/26 campaign must be the one that ends the drought.
However, the Arsenal squad still remains some way short in terms of depth and quality, and it is integral they bring in reinforcements in the upcoming summer transfer window. In particular, a new winger is likely on the cards, and Arteta and his entourage should look no further than one of the breakout stars in Europe, who is already on the house hunt in London.
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Williams was one of the best players in Euros 2024, and he also earned Man of the Match in the final to crown a scintillating campaign that saw him land on the radar of several top European clubs.
The likes of Barcelona and Chelsea have been linked with his services in the past, but Arteta especially "loves" the 22-year-old and would have liked to bring him to the Emirates in the January transfer window. A deal could not come to fruition due to the finances involved - specifically the £400,000-per-week wage demands and the release clause in the region of £48.75 million.
Arsenal have been hesitant over a move for Williams, but he has been dubbed 'astonishing', and he has the pace and flair to elevate the team's threat on the flanks. Crucially, he is believed to be open to a move to the club too and has already started "looking for a house in London", per reports in Spain.
Nico Williams vs Gabriel Martinelli vs Leandro Trossard - 2024/25 Statistics comparison
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Key Passes per 90
Successful Take-Ons per 90
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have struggled with consistency on the left-wing, which has led to an imbalance in attack and an over-reliance on Bukayo Saka on the opposite side. The Gunners must do whatever it takes to land Williams, who can solve this issue by bringing flair and unpredictability to strengthen Arsenal's threat across the entire frontline.
The likes of Newcastle and Liverpool have opened contacts over a move for the Spanish international as well, so Arsenal must move swiftly to secure his signature.
Real Madrid winger Rodrygo appeared to be another option for the Gunners, but Xabi Alonso recently confirmed he wants him to stay in Spain.
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Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 25/05/2025