Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow with Bukayo Saka sidelined for around two months due to a hamstring injury that required surgery.
This setback has prompted the Gunners to accelerate their plans to sign a winger, with Mikel Arteta seemingly close to adding a new recruit to his squad.
According to Football Transfers, Arsenal are in advanced discussions with Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams and his representatives.
The Premier League club is reportedly prepared to activate his £48 million release clause to secure the deal swiftly.
While Barcelona have shown interest in Williams, Arsenal’s proactive approach and Barcelona’s financial constraints could give the Gunners an edge in the race for his signature.
The report highlights Williams as a cost-effective alternative to AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, another player on Arsenal’s radar. Leao’s transfer fee, estimated at £65 million, has made Williams the priority for a January acquisition.
Until a new winger officially joins, Arteta will need to rely on Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to cover the right flank.
Raheem Sterling, who has been on loan from Chelsea, has not consistently delivered and is seen as an unreliable option, particularly in the Premier League and Champions League.
While Williams primarily plays on the left wing, his potential signing could create congestion in that area. However, he has proven his ability on the right wing at Athletic Bilbao. At just 22 years old, Williams could adapt more easily to a new role compared to Arsenal’s other wingers.
If Arsenal trigger Williams’ release clause, Athletic Bilbao would have little power to retain him during the winter transfer window.
However, it remains uncertain whether Williams is ready to make the mid-season move. Regardless, his arrival would be a significant boost for Arsenal, offering a high-caliber player with long-term potential.
Williams, a rising star in La Liga, gained widespread recognition for his performances with Spain during Euro 2024.
This season, he has contributed two goals and five assists in the league. Although his stats are not as impressive as last season, his on-field impact has been crucial to Athletic Club’s success so far.
Arsenal reject €95m PSG bid for 23yo
The decision underscored Arsenal’s firm stance that the French international is untouchable, a position now under renewed scrutiny with Real Madrid reportedly identifying the 23-year-old as their top transfer target.
Saliba has been pivotal for Arsenal, cementing his place among Europe’s elite defenders since becoming a first-team regular in 2022.
His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has been crucial to the Gunners’ recent resurgence, attracting interest from major clubs like PSG and Real Madrid.
Despite PSG’s record-breaking bid, as highlighted in the Sport article above, Arsenal’s rejection of the offer signals their determination to build their future around Saliba.
The Frenchman, who is under contract until 2027, remains equally committed to Arsenal. Speaking recently, he said, “Yeah of course, I feel at home. I signed for the club five years ago but it’s only my third season and I’m enjoying everything – the players, the staff and the fans, so why not?” His words reflect a player fully invested in Arsenal’s long-term vision.
Reports indicate that the Spanish giants are ready to outbid PSG with an offer exceeding €100 million to strengthen their defense. However, Arsenal’s firm stance and Saliba’s contentment in North London suggest Real Madrid’s efforts may ultimately prove unsuccessful.
Arsenal’s decision to reject PSG’s offer was a strong declaration of their intentions. Saliba is not only a standout talent but also central to the club’s long-term aspirations. While Real Madrid may attempt to challenge Arsenal’s resolve, the Gunners’ prior stance and Saliba’s loyalty make it clear they have no intention of letting go of their star defender.
