Arsenal to face SHOCK rival for Nico Williams transfer

Suraj Radia

• 28 Sept 2024 15:00 BST
• 3 min read

Arsenal could face shock interest from a Premier League rival to sign Nico Williams next summer, with Manchester United reportedly entering the race for the Athletic Bilbao winger.

Williams was a top target for Arsenal and Barcelona this summer but the winger opted to remain with Athletic Club for another season despite the strong pursuit of some of Europe’s major sides.

However, Athletic are already said to be resigned to Williams leaving next summer, with his contract containing an appealing release clause of €60 million.

READ MORE: Arsenal 'willing' to make stunning January transfer

Barcelona have felt they are leading the chase for Williams but United are ‘determined’ to ‘snatch’ Williams from their grasp, according to Fichajes, who claim Erik ten Hag’s side could pose the biggest threat for his signature.

Both sides are said to be willing to make a ‘considerable financial effort’ to sign Williams but United could go ‘all out’ and make an offer to ‘oust’ Barca from the bidding.

Arsenal will undoubtedly not let a key target of theirs go to a rival without a fight and Arteta’s side will feel they offer a stronger footballing project but United may have the edge of all teams financially.

Williams ready for ‘final season’ in Bilbao

Williams has been one of the most coveted players on the market after starring for Spain during their successful Euro 2024 campaign in the summer.

The 22-year-old grabbed five goals and 11 assists last season in La Liga and has already scored once this season, after two goals and an assist for Spain in six games at the Euros.

READ MORE: ‘I’m relieved Ronaldo left Man Utd’ - Georgina Rodriguez SLAMS Manchester

Current ETV

Nico Williams

M (L)

Athletic

Nico Williams

M (L)

Athletic

€49.6M

ETV Range

€37.2M - €62M

View full profile

Part of Williams’ desire to remain in Bilbao for another season was due to the presence of his brother Inaki, who recently insisted that Nico made the ‘right decision’ this summer.

The Williams brothers have both expressed their joy at playing alongside each other for their boyhood club but Nico is believed to have told people close to him that this will be his last season in the red and white stripes of Bilbao.