The decisive factor that could take Nico Williams to Arsenal

The Arsenal is ready to make a masterstroke in the summer transfer market of 2025 and, aside from interest in names like Viktor Gyökeres and Martín Zubimendi, one of the most exciting figures at the Emirates Stadium is Nico Williams. The winger from Athletic Club, at 22 years old, has become the star target for the 'gunners', who are already taking steps to secure his signing.

After being one of the major attractions of the last summer window due to his links with a possible move to FC Barcelona, the Navarrese decided to stay at San Mamés, but his contract expires in 2027 and his release clause is relatively affordable, which is why big clubs, including the Catalans, continue to pursue him.

However, it is in London where they are reportedly monitoring him more closely and Arsenal's sporting director, Andrea Berta, has already held a meeting with the player's representatives to start paving the way for what could be one of the most important signings of the summer window.

The 'gunners' plan is clear: match the release clause of 58 million euros and close the operation in the summer, avoiding another saga like that of 2024, when Williams rejected the Londoners and Barça to stay in Bilbao. Mikel Arteta needs to strengthen an attack completely hampered by injuries this season and the Navarrese is one of his main desires, so they want to facilitate his arrival as soon as possible.

Nico Williams' demand to sign for Arsenal

In this regard, reports from England state that the player, although he has shown openness to join the Spanish coach's project at the Emirates Stadium, is not willing to leave Athletic Club at any cost. Therefore, he has reportedly demanded the 'gunners' a contract on par with stars like Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka.

Nico is aware that he would arrive in London as a star, which is why he expects to receive a salary that places him at the top of the pay scale. This figure would be around 15 million euros gross per year, which significantly improves his current contract in Bilbao, where he would earn around 10.42 'kilos' gross, so, if he receives the club's green light, this factor could tip the scales in favor of his move to the Premier League.

Barça considers the signing of Williams

At Can Barça, meanwhile, they are starting to consider the possibility of launching a new offensive for the winger. The alternative of Williams has not stopped being on the table of the sporting management, but with much less force than last year due to the irregularity the player has shown this season and the presence of figures like Luis Díaz or Rafael Leao on the horizon.

However, it is evident that Nico is liked at Spotify Camp Nou. Moreover, he maintains an excellent relationship with several stars of Barça such as Lamine Yamal or Dani Olmo and the figure of his release clause makes him an attractive piece in the market, although, for now, no decision has been made and he is not a priority for the club.

The player, for his part, is very happy at Athletic Club and his main goal, as of today, is to help Ernesto Valverde's team become champions of the Europa League, whose final will be held at San Mamés. The Bilbao team, meanwhile, continues to fight to retain him and it is not ruled out that they will make him a renewal offer in the coming weeks, but for now, the player's future remains uncertain.