Chelsea and Arsenal are both negotiating to sign Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams into their squads, and both are reportedly offering him outrageous wages. Both have thus far been unable to put pen to paper. However, Williams is content in Spain and prepared to extend his stay.
The Blues are willing to pay the entire €58 million – the release clause fee for Williams, who they feel is worth every penny. However, there will be concerns around his wage requirements, up to £400,000 per week, which are beyond the wage budget at Stamford Bridge.
Arsenal are also interested in signing Williams in an effort to bring some more attacking ability into the club. Manager Mikel Arteta would like to add some punch to the attack, and Williams’ performances for Spain have shown his capacity.
While the Premier League calls, Athletic Bilbao would prefer Williams to stay and made a first offer to keep him on a long-term deal. The club are hoping that they can renew his contract, with the option to hike his release clause so interested clubs find it difficult to sign him.
Chelsea and Arsenal Continue to Hunt for Players
Chelsea and Arsenal are attempting to sign the majority of their transfer targets over the summer in order to build up key players in their team. The Gunners would like to build up key players in their attack. They desire Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, who has limited game time now with the arrival of Kylian Mbappe.
They are also tracking Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane as deputy winger targets. Meanwhile, Arsenal have started serious discussions with RB Leipzig to sign Benjamin Sesko. Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres is also on their list.
Chelsea are quite eager to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, but the transfer cost proves to be an issue. The club have already signed Dário Essugo and have settled Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.
The Blues are aiming for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan to fill the spot of Robert Sanchez. They also want Borussia Dortmund’s winger Jamie Gittens on the wings, particularly after opting against keeping Jadon Sancho.