The Spanish international was the priority target of Mikel Arteta for transfers for almost a year, and Arsenal finally hopes to sign it before the 2025-26 season.
The Gunners are targeting a significant overhaul of the workforce this summer, and Williams is one of the many planned transfers, alongside the Real Sociedad Martin Zubimendi midfielder, the Sporting CP Viktor Gyokeres and, potentially, of the Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
Arsenal insists for Nico Williams
Williams is also coveted by Barcelona and Chelsea, although the Spanish newspaper El Nacional claims that he could decide to reject European offers in order to extend his contract with the Athletic Club.
His current contract in San Mamés expired in 2027, but it might seem to accept new conditions if the Athletic Club qualifies for the Champions League next season.
Ernesto Valverde's team currently has two tracks to qualify for the European competition for the most prestigious clubs next year: either by finishing among the first five of the Liga, or by winning the Europa League.
Will Athletic Club qualify for the Champions League next year?
The Athletic Club currently occupies fourth place in the Spanish elite classification, but is only six points ahead of Real Betis, sixth, and still has difficult matches to play against Real Sociedad and Barcelona.
In addition, Manchester United could end his hopes to win the Europa League at Old Trafford next week.
The Red Devils won 3-0 in the first leg in Spain Thursday evening. At the same time, Man UTD could refuse the Basque team the chance to play the Champions League next year, which would help Arsenal in its quest for the signature of Williams.
