What Nico Williams has said about his 'dream' as fresh Arsenal transfer claim made

With the January window now open, it is Arsenal who are being linked with a move for Williams, who is said to have a release clause worth around £48.1million. Arsenal need more depth out wide, with Gabriel Martinelli having struggled for form for much of the season, while Leandro Trossard has largely disappointed.

Bukayo Saka is a clear starter but hasn’t been quite at the level of last season, and he will now spend a couple of months on the sidelines through injury. A pricey Williams deal could be the answer, according to Football Transfers, who say the Gunners are ready to trigger the release clause having tracked the Spaniard for some time.

What Williams has said

They key question mark over the rumours is that Williams has already promised Athletic Club that his departure won’t come until after this season. He said back in October: “I’m not thinking about my future now. I’m so happy to be at Athletic, fans are happy too. Bilbao is my home, I’m really happy and I want to enjoy it here. I want to bring Athletic at the best level. The dream is that Europa League final at San Mamés.”

Williams had said a month earlier to DAZN: “There were approaches from many clubs. I did well at the Euros and that’s a great showcase.“I had many clubs to choose from but my heart is with Athletic Club. I’m happy here and I’m very happy here. God knows what will happen in the future.”

Those statements suggest that, even if Arsenal take Athletic Club out of the equation by meeting the winger’s release clause, they may have a tough time convincing Williams to put pen to paper before the summer.