Arsenal have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams but will face competition from London rivals Chelsea.
The Gunners, like every other Premier League club, will look to strengthen their squad this summer, and manager Mikel Arteta specifically wants a right-winger. At the moment, Bukayo Saka is the undisputed starter at right wing for the north London club, and Mikel Arteta would like to ease the burden on the England star.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have sent scouts to watch Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams in action multiple times this season.
Williams, 21, has been in sensational form for Athletic Bilbao this season, scoring five goals and supplying 10 assists across 24 games across all competitions. The Spain international has been a joy to watch in La Liga for some time now and it is not surprising to see him attract interest from clubs across Europe.
It is not known how much the 21-year-old winger could cost, but having only very recently signed a new contract until 2027 at San Mames, his value will be high.
Nico Williams to Arsenal—Good choice for Mikel Arteta?
Arsenal would do great by bringing in more depth in attack so they can afford to rest Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli a bit more often. Saka has played the most number of games since Mikel Arteta took charge of the club a few years ago, and having already made 30 appearances across all competitions so far this season, the England international needs to be managed well to avoid burnout.
Thus, the Gunners are looking to sign a right-winger in the summer and have started monitoring Nico Williams at Athletic Bilbao. Williams has been impressive for the Spanish outfit this term and deserves to get more attention from big European clubs, including Arsenal.
The 21-year-old is quick, clever, creative and comfortable operating on both flanks, and such versatility would only be a boon for the Gunners if they manage to get his signature. He is a strong dribbler and would bring flair to this young and dynamic Arsenal side, whilst competing with the likes of Saka, Martinelli and Trossard for a spot in Arteta’s first XI.
At 21, Williams appears to be a fantastic long-term attacking option for Arsenal to target as they look to build a strong squad in the summer to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool for major honours next season.