Arsenal Leads Race for £400,000-a-Week Nico Williams After Talks with Andrea Berta
Arsenal is emerging as the frontrunner in the race to sign highly-rated Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the Gunners have held positive initial discussions with sporting director Andrea Berta and the player’s representatives, with Williams reportedly open to a Premier League switch.
The 22-year-old Spanish international has enjoyed a stellar season in La Liga, scoring 11 goals and contributing seven assists in 44 appearances across all competitions. His consistent performances have attracted serious interest from several top English clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle United. However, it’s Arsenal who currently lead the chase.
Williams, who commands a hefty £400,000-a-week wage, has a £50 million release clause in his contract, which runs until June 2027. While the player is tempted by a move to England, his final decision may hinge on Athletic Bilbao’s Champions League qualification hopes. The Basque club is presently fourth in La Liga with just three matches remaining, putting them in a strong position to secure a coveted European spot.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Williams’ camp has indicated a willingness to consider Premier League offers, though no definitive decision has been made. The Gunners have long admired the dynamic winger, having been linked to him last summer before opting for a loan move for Raheem Sterling.
Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta, formerly of Atlético Madrid, is reportedly eager to make Williams one of his marquee signings as he spearheads the club’s summer recruitment drive.
Alongside the pursuit of Williams, Arsenal are also closing in on the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Respected transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Berta is working on multiple deals, with Zubimendi expected to be the first arrival of his tenure at the Emirates.
With Mikel Arteta’s side pushing to build on their impressive Premier League campaign, the addition of Nico Williams would bolster Arsenal’s attacking options and add depth to a squad aiming for both domestic and European success next season.
The coming weeks promise to be pivotal, as Arsenal fans eagerly await further developments in what’s shaping up to be an ambitious summer transfer window.
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