Arsenal have been ‘making checks’ on Athletic Club winger Nico Williams ahead of the summer transfer window, according to a report.

BILBAO, SPAIN: Kieran Tierney of Real Sociedad is challenged by Nico Williams of Athletic Club during the LaLiga EA Sports match at Estadio de San Mames on January 13, 2024. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
BILBAO, SPAIN: Kieran Tierney of Real Sociedad is challenged by Nico Williams of Athletic Club during the LaLiga EA Sports match at Estadio de San Mames on January 13, 2024. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

John Cross reports for the Mirror that Arsenal scouts have been watching Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, as the club look to sign a winger in the summer transfer window.

Real Madrid, Aston Villa, and Liverpool have also been linked with Williams, and Athletic Club don’t want to sell.

But Williams’ contract contains a release clause, and though his club declined to reveal it publicly, reports suggest it stands at around €55m (£47m).

VALLADOLID, SPAIN - MARCH 17: Nico Williams of Athletic Club and Ivan Fresneda of Real Valladolid CF battle for the ball during the LaLiga Santander match between Real Valladolid CF and Athletic Club at Estadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla on March 17, 2023 in Valladolid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
VALLADOLID, SPAIN: Nico Williams of Athletic Club and Ivan Fresneda of Real Valladolid CF battle for the ball during the LaLiga Santander match between Real Valladolid CF and Athletic Club at Estadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla on March 17, 2023. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Arsenal are keen on other wingers too, including Pedro Neto. The Gunners have long been linked with a move for Neto, and perhaps this summer will finally see bids go in for the Portuguese international.

Neto has had various injury problems in recent years, including a hamstring injury this season. But the winger still has three goals and 10 assists in his 17 appearances in the Premier League and FA Cup this campaign.

Williams is putting up similar numbers, with five goals and 10 assists in 24 games in 2023/24, and a couple of minor injuries of his own.

Spain's forward #12 Nico Williams gestures during the Qatar 2022 World Cup round of 16 football match between Morocco and Spain at the Education City Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on December 6, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP) (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
Spain’s Nico Williams gestures during the Qatar 2022 World Cup round of 16 football match between Morocco and Spain at the Education City Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on December 6, 2022. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)

For now, any move for either winger appears to be in the early stages. The Gunners will likely continue to keep an eye on both as we move closer to the summer window.

Nico Williams: A rising star in La Liga

Nico Williams, the speedy 21-year-old winger from Athletic Bilbao, is turning heads in La Liga. Here’s a look at his career and his impressive 2023/24 season so far:

Early career and rise to prominence:

  • Born in Pamplona, Spain, Nico joined Athletic Bilbao’s youth academy in 2013, progressing through the ranks before making his first-team debut in April 2021 alongside his brother, Iñaki.
  • He established himself as a regular starter in the 2022/23 season, contributing 6 goals and 5 assists in 36 La Liga appearances.
  • His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team in September 2022, making his debut against Switzerland.

2023/24 Season: Making a mark on La Liga:

  • He has already racked up 5 goals and 10 assists in 24 appearances this season, making him one of the most productive wingers in the league.
  • His direct running, dribbling skills, and crossing ability make him a constant threat to opposing defences.
  • He has also shown leadership qualities, becoming a reliable figure on the pitch for the Basque club.

Transfer speculation and future potential:

  • Nico’s performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool.
  • His contract with Athletic Bilbao runs until 2027, but it reportedly includes a €55 million release clause, tempting potential suitors.
  • With his young age, talent, and room for improvement, Nico Williams is tipped for a bright future in the world of football.

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