Arsenal enter the race to sign Athletic Bilbao ace Nico Williams

According The Athletic, Arsenal has Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams as one of his potential targets for the summer transfer window.

The Spaniard had a fantastic 2023/24 season with Bilbao. He was his most outstanding player in the final third with 8 goals and 19 assists in 37 appearances.

The 21-year-old has also been impressive at the current European Championship and The Athletic reveals that Arsenal have him on their summer wish list.

Gunners Manager Mikel Arteta He is an admirer of his compatriot. Williams is one of the preferable options for Arteta if Arsenal opt to sign another winger.

Possible agreement

Arsenal are well equipped in the attacking department. Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are currently competing for the left position, while Bukayo Saka He has been the undisputed starter from the opposite end.

However, Arteta may want a different solution for Saka next term. The Arsenal graduate has been exceptional with regular contributions to goals, but the manager may want more quality in the team to reduce his heavy workload.

Williams would be a great signing in that regard. He played almost exclusively from the left side of Bilbao's attack last season, but managed to do exactly the opposite in 2022/23, where he operated from the right wing position.

The Spaniard has fantastic dribbling skills and pace behind defenses, but has also impressed with his defensive duties. Williams does not shy away from engaging in duels and recovering balls for his team.

His all-round attributes would fit into Arteta's plans. The Athletic reveals that he has a £46.5m release clause in his contract and that Bilbao may not accept a smaller package to part ways with the talented attacker.

For that price, he could be a bargain in the current transfer market, considering his young age and immense potential. It remains to be seen if Arsenal can convince him to join without the guarantee of starting.