The transfer market continues to generate great expectations, and several names are on the table of Europe's most important clubs. However, this time, one of the most desired players has decided to follow a different path from the Spanish giants. Although Real Madrid and Barça were the main interested parties, the footballer's future seems to be at Arsenal.
Arsenal, the Main Candidate
Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal is preparing for a major outlay next transfer market. Arteta has spoken of an ambitious sports project, and everything points to the London club making a strong bid for several quality signings. Among the names that have been most prominent in recent weeks, one has stood out: Nico Williams.
Arsenal's new sporting director, Andrea Berta, has already had several meetings with Nico Williams's entourage. Although these meetings have been informal, the club's management is very interested in incorporating the Basque winger. There is talk of a release clause exceeding 60 million euros, a figure that, according to some sources, Arsenal is willing to pay to secure his services.
Other Major Interested Parties
Although Arsenal has positioned itself as one of the main favorites to sign Nico Williams, there are many clubs that have also attempted to sign him in the past. FC Barcelona, for example, was very close to reaching an agreement with him last summer.
However, the club's financial difficulties and salary cap prevented the transfer from being finalized. Currently, Barça doesn't have the player as one of its priorities, although it can't be ruled out that they might try to recover him in the future.
Other teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have also shown interest in Nico Williams in previous transfer windows. However, PSG has decided not to continue with the operation because their winger roster is well-covered. On the other hand, Bayern has focused its efforts on other signings, which has left the player out of the German club's plans.
Athletic, Determined to Retain Him
Despite the increasingly remote chances of Nico Williams staying at Athletic, the Basque club has not stopped fighting for his retention.
Athletic is negotiating to renew him and increase his release clause, which would make his departure even more difficult. The club wants to ensure that, in case he decides to leave, he does so for a significant amount.