Arsenal are determined to sign Athletic Club winger Nico Williams as they look to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window.
Reports indicate that the Gunners are in active talks with the player’s agent and are ready to move quickly to secure the Spanish international, who has a €58 million release clause in his contract.
However, Arsenal’s next steps hinge on Williams agreeing to the transfer, something they were unable to achieve during their pursuit of him last summer. If the 22-year-old approves the move, Arsenal is prepared to trigger his release clause.
This transfer is seen as a more cost-effective option compared to AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, another target valued at €75–€80 million. Williams’ lower release clause offers Arsenal a financially viable solution.
Arsenal’s need for reinforcements has been made more urgent by Bukayo Saka’s injury, which is expected to keep him out for up to three months. Saka’s absence has exposed the team’s lack of depth on the right wing. While Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard offer versatility, they are more comfortable on the left, and Williams could temporarily fill the right wing spot and later challenge for a starting role.
The need for additions is further compounded by the struggles of Raheem Sterling, who has not impressed since joining on loan from Chelsea and is currently injured.
Athletic Club is reportedly preparing for Williams’ departure and has identified Norwich City’s Borja Sainz as a possible replacement.
At just 22, Williams is regarded as one of Spain’s top young talents, with excellent pace, technical ability, and the versatility to play on either flank. His skill set aligns well with Mikel Arteta’s tactical plans, and his release clause fits within Arsenal’s financial strategy, providing a high-quality addition at a reasonable price.
Signing Williams would address immediate needs while strengthening the squad’s depth, fostering healthy competition with Saka, Martinelli, and Trossard, and bolstering Arsenal’s chances in both the Premier League and European competitions.
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In another development, former Arsenal striker Paul Merson has urged the club to “go all out” for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, calling for a substantial bid for the Swedish forward.
Isak impressed with a standout performance in Newcastle’s 2-0 win over Manchester United, scoring the opening goal with a well-placed header. Arsenal has been linked with the 25-year-old, who has also attracted interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.
Merson believes Isak would elevate Arsenal to the next level, even with Gabriel Jesus improving his form. “If I were Arsenal, and I had the money, I’d go out and buy Isak,” Merson told Sky Sports News. “I think he’s the best of the best, and I think he takes Arsenal to another level.”
Merson also stated that he would prefer Isak over Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, given how Isak suits Arsenal’s style of play. “He probably suits Arsenal more than Haaland.”
CIES estimates Isak’s value at around £75 million, and with more than three years left on his contract, Newcastle is expected to demand a significant fee for the forward. Isak has reportedly expressed his desire for Champions League football, but with Newcastle currently in fifth place, their top-four hopes are still uncertain.
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