Arsenal are reportedly ready to trigger Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams’ £48 million release clause during the transfer window. 

The Gunners were linked to Williams in the summer transfer window, but decided not to sign the impressive Spaniard.

He came to prominence during Euro 2024 for Spain and has since backed up his performances in the summer, with impressive form for Athletic Bilbao this season.

The 22-year-old attracted interest from both Arsenal and Chelsea during the summer, and reports are now emerging that the Gunners are ready to re-ignite their interest in him.

According to Football Transfers, Arsenal are ready to trigger the £48m release clause in Williams’ contract with Bilbao in order to sign him during the January window.

He would help to fill the void left by Bukayo Saka, who suffered a hamstring injury last month. Saka is due to be out for an extended period of time. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “He had a procedure. Everything went well. But unfortunately, he will be out for many, many weeks. I think it will be more than two months. I don’t know exactly how much longer.”

Furthermore, due to his age of just 22, Williams has the potential to turn into one of the most exciting wingers in world football, something that would make the £48m release clause, a comparative bargain.

How can Arsenal replace Bukayo Saka?

If the Gunners don’t decide to sign Nico Williams, they could pursue one of their other winger targets who could replace the injured Saka.

Brentford winger Bryan Mbuemo, who scored during Arsenal’s 3-1 win over the Bees, has been linked over a move to the Emirates. He has scored 11 goals so far this season for Thomas Frank’s side.

Furthermore, West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus has also been linked to Arsenal, although, he is expected to command a hefty price-tag due to interest from the likes of Liverpool too.