Nico Williams’ future could lie in the Premier League as Arsenal are amping up efforts to bring the player to the Emirates Stadium. As per reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Gunners are doing everything in their power to sign Williams, and are likely to be rivalled by Chelsea for the winger’s signature. The report adds that the two clubs will be willing to pay his reported release clause around £50m.
Williams has risen from depths and performed at a high level for the last two seasons, also playing a key role in Spain’s march to winning Euro 2024. He had a great season last time out as he made 37 appearances across competitions, scoring eight goals and providing 19 assists as well. This season, however, his form has taken a dip as he has managed just two goals and five assists in 24 games so far.
Despite the lack of numbers, Arsenal and Chelsea remain highly interested in signing Nico Williams. While the financial implications can easily be handled by the clubs, the player himself does not seem keen to leave Athletic Club and will need some serious convincing.
An overview of Nico Williams’ progress
Born in 2002, Nico Williams began his youth career with home-town club CD Pamplona in 2010, spending two years with them. The following year, he moved to Osasuna but remained with them for just one year, before moving to Athletic Bilbao in 2013, where he found a home.
Having spent six years with their youth teams, Williams moved to Basconia to kickstart his senior career, before moving back to Bilbao but with their B team for the 2020-21 season. He broke into the first team the following season and has been a mainstay since, making 146 appearances, scoring 22 goals and providing 31 assists.
Aged just 22, he has also become an integral part of the Spanish national side under Luis De La Fuente. Williams has made 24 appearances for Spain, scoring four goals and providing six assists as well.
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With age on his side and plenty of time to regain form, clubs in pursuit of the player will stay alert regarding any developments in Williams’ camp.
