Arsenal dealt major setback as £50m target agrees six-year deal with Barcelona

Barcelona hijack Arsenal’s transfer plans as Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams agrees shock move to Camp Nou.

Arsenal’s summer transfer plans have suffered a significant setback as Barcelona hijack Arsenal’s bid for highly sought-after winger Nico Williams, who has reportedly agreed to join Barcelona on a six-year contract. The Athletic Club star, long admired by both Arsenal and Chelsea, is now on the verge of completing a blockbuster move to the LaLiga champions.

The 22-year-old Spanish international, who dazzled at Euro 2024 and netted in the final against England, has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising left-sided attackers. Arsenal had identified Nico Williams as a key target to bolster their forward line, but his preference to remain in Spain and link up with compatriot Lamine Yamal and new manager Hansi Flick at the Camp Nou has shifted the tide firmly in Barcelona’s favor.

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According to Fabrizio Romano, Williams has agreed personal terms with Barça, with a salary in the region of €7–8 million per year (£6–7 million). However, the deal is not yet finalized, as Barcelona must still negotiate a financial package with Athletic Club. The Basque side is demanding the full £50 million release clause be paid upfront, while Barcelona are hoping to structure the payment in installments.

For Arsenal, this development is a bitter blow. Mikel Arteta’s side, having narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season, are eager to strengthen their squad to mount another serious challenge. Williams was seen as a perfect fit for Arteta’s system, offering pace, creativity, and versatility on the left flank.

With Williams now seemingly Nou Camp-bound, Arsenal may need to pivot quickly to alternative targets. The transfer window is heating up, and the Gunners will be keen not to fall behind in the race for top-tier talent. One thing is clear: Barcelona’s resurgence under Flick is already making waves in the market.