Chelsea are well placed ahead of Arsenal to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, according to Spanish publication Sport (page 10).
Williams is one of the most sought-after young wingers in European football. He was brilliant for Spain at the 2024 European Championship.
The 22-year-old registered eight goals and 19 assists for Bilbao last season and is hoping that a big club will trigger his £49 million release clause.
Arsenal and Chelsea are mentioned as potential candidates to sign him ahead of Barcelona, who can’t enter the race until their financial restrictions are lifted.
Chelsea have done plenty of groundwork on the youngster and are ahead of Arsenal in the transfer race.
The Gunners have the Spaniard high on their transfer wishlist, but they only consider him an option on the right wing to strengthen the squad for next season.
Arsenal could miss out on Williams due to playing time
Williams had an exceptional season with Bilbao with 27 goal contributions. He helped them win the Copa del Rey title and went on to star for Spain at Euro 2024.
He is enjoying the best phase of his career and seems keen on leaving Bilbao before pre-season training. Arsenal face a potential roadblock in signing him.
The Gunners are more than capable of meeting the price tag and his wage demands, having qualified for the Champions League for the second year running under manager Mikel Arteta.
However, they are unlikely to guarantee him a regular starting role ahead of Saka. Arsenal seem to consider Williams as a potential deputy to the Englishman.
The Gunners already have multiple options on the left wing. Leandro Trossard had a fantastic season, while Gabriel Martinelli has been a good performer in recent years.
Williams has a genuine chance of securing a starting role with Chelsea. Barcelona could also grant him the same on the left wing if La Liga lifted their spending restrictions.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
This article was written by .
