Arsenal Dealt Blow in Pursuit of £49m Transfer Target

Arsenal faces transfer setback as Williams a key transfer target nears a contract renewal with Athletic Club, complicating the Gunners’ £49m pursuit.

Arsenal’s hopes of securing Athletic Club winger Nico Williams have suffered a setback as the Spanish international has begun talks over a contract renewal with his current club. The Gunners, alongside Chelsea, had identified Williams a key transfer target for their summer transfer plans, particularly after his impressive performances in Euro 2024 and a strong season with Athletic, where he registered 11 goals and seven assists.

Williams, who has a £49m release clause, was seen as an ideal addition to bolster Arsenal’s attacking options. The club’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, had even met with representatives to discussrepresentatives to discuss a potential deal. However, reports from Ben Jacob indicate that Williams could be offered a yearly salary of €10m (£8.5m), a significant increase on his current earnings, making a move away from Athletic less likely.

Adding to Arsenal’s woes, a new contract for Williams would likely come with an increased release clause, potentially pricing out interested clubs. While Barcelona had previously shown interest in the winger, they have now shifted their focus elsewhere, with club president Joan Laporta confirming that Williams is no longer a priority for the Catalan giants.

With Williams’ future at Athletic looking more secure, Arsenal may need to explore alternative options. The club has been linked with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, though new manager Xabi Alonso has dismissed speculation about the Brazilian’s departure. Chelsea, meanwhile, have reportedly opened talks to sign Borussia Dortmund youngster Jamie Gittens, who could be available for around £50m.

Arsenal faces a critical summer transfer window as they continues to look for attacking reinforcements. Whether they can pivot to other targets or find a way to reignite their pursuit of Williams remains to be seen.

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