Barcelona clears path for Arsenal to sign £49m summer target after cooling interest

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Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, with Barcelona officially cooling their interest in the Spanish international.

The 22-year-old, who scored the winning goal for Spain in the European Championship final against England, had been heavily linked with a move to the Camp Nou last summer. However, financial constraints saw Barcelona opt to sign Dani Olmo instead of Williams, despite their initial interest.

Now, with Williams reportedly demanding wages in the region of £300,000 per week, the Catalan giants have shifted their focus to other targets, leaving Arsenal as the frontrunners for his signature. Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed the club’s stance during an interview with TV3.

“Nico Williams was one of the candidates last season, but we decided on Olmo,” Laporta said. “And other options are currently being considered.”

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Part of Barcelona’s decision is also influenced by the form of Brazilian winger Raphinha, who has been instrumental in helping the club secure a domestic treble this season. With teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal excelling on the opposite flank, competition for wide positions at Camp Nou has significantly intensified.

Williams, who has a £49 million release clause in his contract, remains on Arsenal’s radar. The winger has enjoyed another strong campaign for Athletic Bilbao, registering 11 goals and 7 assists in all competitions.

Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is said to have already initiated contact to explore the player’s interest in a move to North London. Backed by strong financial support, the Gunners are prepared to make significant investments in the summer transfer window.

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Club co-chairman Josh Kroenke confirmed the club’s intent in his programme notes ahead of Sunday’s 1-0 win over Newcastle, which sealed Champions League qualification.

“We plan to invest to get behind winning and doing better next season,” Kroenke wrote. “We’re delighted we have our sporting director, Andrea, who will play an important role in this.”

Manager Mikel Arteta also promised an “exciting summer,” hinting at both internal development and potential new signings.

“First of all, reviewing what we have done. Finding ways to increase the level of the team,” Arteta told Sky Sports. “Then if we don’t have enough from that, it’s about what do we need to recruit now to make the difference.”

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