European club desperate to keep hold of Arsenal target beyond this summer

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Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has expressed his desire to keep Arsenal target Nico Williams at the club for “many years,” as speculation surrounding the winger’s future intensifies ahead of the summer transfer window.

Arsenal are reportedly among the frontrunners to sign the 22-year-old, with manager Mikel Arteta prioritising attacking reinforcements following injuries that disrupted the Gunners’ Premier League title push. Williams was a target for the north London club last summer after his standout performances for Spain at Euro 2024, but a move failed to materialise.

According to reports, new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has already held talks with the player’s representatives as the club prepares to renew its pursuit. Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona are also said to be monitoring the winger, who has scored 11 goals and provided seven assists across all competitions this season. Williams is understood to have a €58 million (£48.4m) release clause in his current contract.

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Despite mounting interest, Valverde remains hopeful that Williams will commit his future to Athletic.

“He has had a very good season and there has been some speculation,” Valverde said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday. “We hope that he is with us next season and for many years because we want to have the best players.”

Williams, who recently recovered from a groin injury, is expected to feature for Athletic in their Europa League semi-final first leg clash against Manchester United on Thursday. However, the player has remained tight-lipped about his future, insisting his focus is firmly on helping his team reach the final.

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“The only thing I’m focusing on at the moment is reaching this [Europa League] final,” Williams told El Desmarque last month. “All my energy and focus is 100 per cent on that. Everything else will be decided later. I’m very happy right now.”

Athletic currently sit fourth in La Liga and are on course to qualify for the Champions League, while Manchester United face a more uncertain path. The Premier League side are languishing in 14th place and must win the Europa League to secure a return to European football next season.

The match at San Mamés on Thursday could have major implications for both clubs — and perhaps for the future of one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.

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