Arsenal is reportedly on the brink of securing a summer transfer deal for La Liga winger Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao. Sources suggest that negotiations are nearly complete, with most terms already agreed upon between the player and the club.
The Gunners have been having a strong season in the Premier League, but their chances of clinching the title appear slim. Over the weekend, Liverpool extended their lead in the title race to 15 points after a 3-1 victory over Southampton, while Arsenal settled for a 1-1 draw against Manchester United. Given Liverpool’s impressive record—having lost only one league match this season—Arsenal’s title hopes seem increasingly unrealistic.
Mikel Arteta is under mounting pressure from supporters who had expected Manchester City to be Arsenal’s main rival for the title this season. As a result, there is an expectation that Arteta must deliver the Premier League trophy next season.
However, Arsenal still has an opportunity to claim the Champions League, following their dominant 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the round of 16.
Looking forward, Arteta, along with incoming sporting director Andrea Berta, has already shifted focus to the summer transfer window. Williams has emerged as a top priority for the Gunners, with reports from Spain indicating that he has turned down Barcelona in favor of a move to North London.
One key factor influencing his decision is the lack of guaranteed playing time at Barcelona, where competition from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha has made securing a regular spot challenging.
The report further claims that Arsenal has successfully convinced Williams with Arteta’s vision of an ambitious project in which he would play a vital role. Arsenal is said to be finalizing their move ahead of other interested clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus.
Williams, who played a crucial role in Spain’s European Championship triumph this summer, has reportedly declined multiple offers from top European clubs. Despite this, he previously chose to extend his stay at Athletic Bilbao following the Euros.
Reflecting on that decision, Williams recently shared his thoughts: “The bond we have at this club is incredible. There is a mutual respect between everyone, which is something special. I don’t think I would find this kind of atmosphere anywhere else.”
He further added, “I stayed because it felt like the best decision for me. I am happy here and committed to giving my best.”
