Arsenal still linked with Nico Williams, but transfer now looks unlikely.
Last summer, Arsenal were heavily linked with signing a versatile winger, with reports suggesting Mikel Arteta was keen on adding someone capable of playing on either flank.
Nico Williams emerged as the standout target after a brilliant 2023–24 season in which he produced eight goals and 18 assists in 37 appearances. He then helped Spain win the 2024 European Championship in Germany, further cementing his status as a dream signing.
However, despite the hype, the move never materialised. Barcelona were in the frame, and Williams’ wage demands reportedly complicated discussions. In the end, Arsenal turned to Raheem Sterling in a late-window move that did not pay off.
Real Madrid enter the race as Bilbao play hardball
With the transfer window now open again, Arsenal are reportedly still monitoring Williams. Barcelona have stepped aside, but Real Madrid are now expected to challenge for his signature.
On paper, Arsenal could offer the winger more regular football, with Vinícius Júnior an immovable fixture on the left at the Bernabéu. That pitch might appeal to a player entering his peak, but it remains to be seen whether Williams is even open to listening.
Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde recently poured cold water on speculation, making it clear that Williams has shown no sign of wanting to leave.
As reported by FootballTransfers, Valverde stated:
“We assume he’ll be with us next year, and we want that to be the case. There are always rumours about players, and you know how it is.
“We’re very happy with Nico, and Nico is very happy with us. We hope next year is a great year for him, and that he does it here.”
Arsenal must walk away if Williams isn’t fully committed
Although Arsenal could activate his £42 million release clause with ease, they must avoid getting drawn into another drawn-out saga if the player is not fully on board.
There is a reason Barcelona cooled their interest and began looking elsewhere. With Marcus Rashford and Luis Díaz now on their radar, it is possible they sensed Williams was not ready to leave his boyhood club.
At one point, a Nico–Lamine Yamal partnership at Camp Nou looked inevitable. That now seems off the table.
Despite his impressive stats last season, 11 goals and seven assists in 44 games, Arsenal must assess whether this is still the right move. If Williams is not committed to a transfer, the Gunners’ choice is clear.
Move on, and focus on targets who are ready to embrace the project.
What are your thoughts?
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I do not think he particularly wants to come to Arsenal so would be daft to pursue it. Stick to targets who are showing interest like Zubimendi.
Like every other top players, u show them u want them more with cool contract then they will show interest unless we are just coward to go for the statement signing
As far as I understand he is asking for something ridiculous like 400K a week.
Besides, I think RM are looking at him to replace a certain Rodrygo, who I would love to see in an Arsenal shirt!
Perhaps up whilst contracted to his club he can’t express his true feelings around joining us? until he puts pen to paper we are in no mans land with him for which reason we should look further than him. On closer inspection, research and scrutiny it should show that Williams wont be the only one that is speedy and productive winger playing in his position.
Lets get it done arsenal no more excuses.
Get Mbeumo from Brentford and we are good to go
He would deputise Saka on the right while we retain our two existing left wingers
Nwaneri would deputise Odegaard. I was impressed with him yesterday when he operated more from the middle
Mbeumo a deputy? He scored 20 goals this season. He wouldn’t deputise anyone.
Odegaard needs real competition so as he never drops his higher standards; Nwaneri can deputize for Saka as a squaddy or he will likely be sold on. I believe X.Simons is comparable to Odegaad will be advised to pass the captaincy to Gabriel or to Declan. Controversial I know but we need fixing.
So here is the real test: Arsenal with Martinelli compared to Arsenal with Nico Williams. Is really worth the 50M and extra 100k per week? Enough said.