Ex-Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit says that Nico Williams would be a “dream signing” for his former club.
The Athletic Bilbao winger has impressed whilst playing for Spain at Euro 2024 and, speaking to Bet365, Petit said he would be an excellent addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad:
“Arsenal’s dream signing this summer would be Nico Williams. I’ve been watching him in Spain with his club, but he has impressed me a lot during Euro 2024, especially against Italy. It was a nightmare for the right back. I think he could have a huge impact at Arsenal.”
Williams does have a release clause in his contract. Any team can snap him up if they are willing to pay €58m (£49m).
Many teams (including Arsenal) are interested in signing the forward
Reports in the Spanish media have suggested that both the Gunners and Chelsea are willing to pay Williams’ buyout fee, although that hasn’t been corroborated by sources in the UK.
Liverpool and Barcelona have also been credited with an interest in the 21-year-old but there are question marks about whether he wants to leave Bilbao.
Williams only signed a new contract six months ago
The Spanish international is currently earning €200,000 a week. Some fans may be shocked by his salary but it is important to point out that he put pen to paper on a new deal in December. Speaking about his future recently, the winger made it clear that he is happy to stay where he is:
“My Future? I recently renewed with Athletic Bilbao and I am both happy and comfortable. It’s quite strange that I’m getting asked about this.”
It should also be noted that he plays alongside his brother Inaki at Bilbao, who has spent the last decade playing in Athletic’s first team.
