Arsenal’s transfer ambitions are reaching fever pitch as the summer window approaches, with the Gunners on the verge of securing a blockbuster signing in Athletic Bilbao’s electrifying winger Nico Williams. The 22-year-old Spaniard, a long-standing target for Mikel Arteta’s side, has reportedly begun saying goodbye to his Bilbao teammates, signaling an “imminent departure” to the Premier League. With Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta orchestrating a flurry of high-profile deals, Williams’ potential arrival could be the spark to ignite Arsenal’s quest for the 2025-26 Premier League title. “He’s ready to shine at the European elite,” an insider close to the player said, hinting at Williams’ eagerness to take his talents to England.
Williams has been a standout performer for Bilbao, dazzling with his pace, flair, and goal-scoring prowess. In the 2024-25 LaLiga season, he notched eight goals and 11 assists, earning praise for his ability to torment defenders on the left flank. His €58 million (£48.8 million) release clause has drawn interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and previously Barcelona, but the Gunners have emerged as frontrunners. “A new winger will arrive at the Emirates,” a trusted transfer expert confirmed, underscoring Arsenal’s determination to bolster their attack. Arteta, who has prioritized a versatile wide forward to complement Bukayo Saka, sees Williams as the perfect fit, capable of playing on either wing or cutting inside to create chaos.
The young Spaniard’s decision to leave Bilbao, where he has spent his entire professional career, marks a significant turning point. “Everything points to his immediate future being in England,” sources close to the negotiations revealed, noting that Williams’ emotional farewells to teammates suggest a deal is nearing completion. His departure follows a stellar 2024-25 campaign, where he helped Bilbao secure European qualification, and a standout performance at Euro 2024, where he scored in Spain’s victory over England in the final. Arsenal fans are buzzing with excitement, envisioning Williams linking up with Saka and Martin Ødegaard in a dynamic front line. “This is the kind of signing that can change our season,” a supporter posted on social media, capturing the growing anticipation.
Berta’s influence has been pivotal in positioning Arsenal as favorites for Williams’ signature. Since joining from Atlético Madrid in March 2025, the sporting director has pursued an aggressive recruitment strategy, with Williams among several high-profile targets. Arsenal are also in advanced talks for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, a £60 million striker, and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, while securing record-breaking contracts for Saka and William Saliba. “Berta is working hard on incomings,” an industry insider noted, emphasizing the club’s ambition to build a squad capable of dethroning Manchester City. The financial backing from Arsenal’s £616.6 million revenue in 2023-24 provides the flexibility to trigger Williams’ release clause without breaching Premier League sustainability rules.
However, Williams’ move is not without competition. Chelsea have also stepped up their interest, drawn by his versatility and Premier League-ready attributes. Yet, Arsenal’s clear vision under Arteta, coupled with their Champions League semi-final run in 2025, gives them an edge. “Mikel Arteta would love for his club to trigger the winger’s release clause,” a transfer analyst said, highlighting the manager’s personal investment in the deal. Barcelona’s withdrawal from the race, due to financial constraints, has further cleared the path for Arsenal to swoop in.
The potential signing of Williams represents more than just a transfer—it’s a statement of intent. Arsenal’s wage bill, already stretched by new deals for Saka and Saliba, will face further pressure, but the club’s leadership believes the investment is justified. “This is about showing we can compete at the highest level,” a club source said, echoing the sentiment driving Arsenal’s bold strategy. As negotiations progress, fans are dreaming of a 2025-26 campaign where Williams’ speed and creativity help end the club’s 22-year wait for a Premier League title. With the Emirates poised to welcome a new star, the stage is set for a transformative summer in North London.