Arsenal have reportedly been handed a major boost in the race for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams.
The 22-year-old burst onto the world stage at Euro 2024 in Germany, where he helped Spain to their fourth European Championship trophy, beating England in the final.
Williams was in action for his nation on Monday night, when La Roja finished top of UEFA Nations League A4 following a 3-2 win over Switzerland.
Focusing on club matters, the winger has endured a difficult start to the term for the Spanish club, scoring once and providing one assist across 11 La Liga appearances.
Since graduating from the Athletic Bilbao's youth academy in December 2020, Williams has featured in 137 matches, making the net ripple on 22 occasions.
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Arsenal lead the way in Williams pursuit?
According to The Mirror, Premier League title hopefuls Arsenal have taken the lead in the race for the services of Athletic Bilbao star Williams.
The report claims that the Gunners face competition for the signature of the 22-year-old from Barcelona, who were strongly linked to the player over the summer.
It is understood that Williams has a £54.2m release clause written into his contract at San Mames Barria - a figure that both Arsenal and Barca are able to afford.
However, it is the hefty wage demands of the attacker that are currently pricing Hansi Flick's side out of a potential swoop, with the Spaniard wanting up to £8.3m per year.
As a result, Mikel Arteta's men might have a free run in their pursuit of Williams, without Spanish giants Barca waiting in the wings to snatch the star.
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Alternative options for Arsenal, Barcelona
On the hunt to grab the Premier League crown off Manchester City, it is believed that Arsenal were seriously considering a summer swoop for Williams.
However, the Gunners ultimately opted for a cheaper deal on the flanks, bringing Raheem Sterling across the English capital from Chelsea on loan.
With the capture of Williams appearing less likely, Barcelona are supposedly turning their attentions to other targets, such as Napoli and Georgia hero Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Carter White
