Nico Williams makes shock transfer U-TURN

Cameron Smith

• 14 Feb 2025 16:15 GMT
• 3 min read

Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has reportedly decided to join Barcelona this summer, despite significant interest from Arsenal.

The Spain international is expected to secure a big-money transfer when the 2025 summer window opens, with some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United, eager to trigger his €58 million release clause.

FootballTransfers understands that Williams is Arsenal’s priority transfer target and we have been informed that Mikel Arteta’s side are even willing to pay in excess of his release clause in order to secure better payment terms.

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Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is also expected to join the Emirates Stadium outfit this summer and the presence of several Spain internationals could help persuade Williams to join the Gunners.

Furthermore, recent reports have speculated that Williams has already informed Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal of his decision to snub Barcelona in order to join Arsenal.

However, TBR Football have claimed that Williams still prefers a move to Camp Nou this summer.

READ MORE: Arteta gives POSITIVE Saka injury update but sends ‘BIG TROUBLE’ message

The 23-year-old’s representatives are currently engaged in talks with a number of clubs across Europe, but he reportedly favours joining Barcelona if he leaves Athletic Club in 2025.

The Blaugrana remain in financial difficulty, which could impact a potential deal, although they have been linked with a host of high-profile stars in recent weeks, including Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, and they are expected to challenge for Williams’ signature.

Nico Williams to snub Arsenal?

If Arsenal miss out on Williams, they will be forced to assess alternative options in their bid to significantly bolster their forward line.

We understand that Leandro Trossard is moving closer to signing a new deal in north London, but Arteta is still determined to sign a new winger and a new centre forward this summer.

In addition to Williams, Arsenal are also hoping to purchase one of Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres or the aforementioned Isak.