Nico Williams left winger of Athletic Club and Spain celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Athletic Club and Rangers FC at Estadio de San Mames on April 17, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Arsenal target Nico Williams has set a transfer deadline of July 15 for any club to acquire his services, according to Sport.
The Athletic Club and Spain forward prefers his future to be decided in time to enjoy a full pre-season, putting new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta on notice.
Berta is said to be a huge admirer of Williams, with some reports claiming he has opened talks with the player’s representatives. The player has a release clause, thought to be set at €58m, and Arsenal will have to move fast to fend off interest from other parties.
Breaking Through
Williams dazzled at the Euros last summer, contributing two goals and one assist in six matches as Spain lifted the title. Although his numbers in La Liga with Atletic haven’t set the world alight, he has shown glimpses of potential with his pace and trickery, causing danger for his opponents.
Arsenal are said to be long-term admirers of the player, having scouted Williams heavily for the better part of two seasons. At just 22, Williams would fit the profile of desired targets for Mikel Arteta, and Arsenal’s style of play is regarded by many as a perfect fit for Williams.
The one stumbling block to any potential deal is said to the player’s wage demands. Williams is on very hefty wages in Bilbao and would become one of Arsenal’s highest earners. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta will have his work cut out for him with outgoings and wage restructuring to make any deal happen with just under two months to go until Williams’s alleged deadline.
Sources indicate that this deal is very much feasible for Arsenal, but should the Gunners fail to capture Williams, who are some alternatives Arteta’s men could target?
Alternatives
Ademola Lookman, Atalanta
The Nigerian star has impressed during his spell with Atalanta, starring in last season’s Europa League triumph. He has bagged double digit goals in each of his three seasons with the Italian club, with 13 to his name this season.
His time at the club looks sets end this summer, as he is reportedly seeking a transfer following a dispute with manager Gian Piero Gasperini after a Champions League penalty miss. He has Premier League experience after stints with Everton, Fulham and Leicester City, and has a reported asking price of £50million.
Antoine Semenyo, Bournemouth
Although primarily a right winger, Semenyo can play anywhere across the front three and the 25-year-old Bournemouth winger has been in fine form this season. He joined The Cherries from Championship side Bristol in 2022 and has adapted to life in the top flight perfectly.
Clever in his movement and good with both feet, he has 12 goal contributions in 31 Premier League appearances this season. The Ghana international could provide cover for both Saka on the right and Martinelli on the left.
Bryan Mbeumo, Brentford
Mbeumo has been a breakout start since joining Brentford, currently enjoying his most prolific season with 16 goals and five assists in 32 Premier League appearances. He is another who is primarily a right winger but can play anywhere across the front three, as he is often given the liberty to roam freely by his manager, Thomas Frank.
He has formed a devastating duo with Yoane Wissa, combining for 27 goals, and is now atop the wish list of many clubs across Europe.
Désiré Doué, PSG
The 19-year-old starlet is one of Europe’s hottest prospects, dazzling for PSG in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. He has drawn comparisons to his idol Neymar with his pace and flair, and his screamer against Aston Villa in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final tie showed exactly why.
He would fit the bill at Arsenal – pacey and direct with a keen eye for goal – but would not be cheap as the Parisons won’t want to depart with their prize possession.
Marcus Rashford, Manchester United
Rashford continues to dazzle during his loan spell at Aston Villa, and has made no secret of his desire to leave United permanently at the end of the season. A vastly experienced player in the Premier League, Champions League and internationally with England, Rashford has his sights set on an ambition project for his next move and Arsenal appear to be perfect for that.
He can play both left wing and as a striker, and would fit Arteta’s style to the tee. The player is rumoured to favour a move to Barcelona but is said to be open to any top level club playing Champions League football.
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