In the Shadows of the Transfer Market, a High-Stakes Game of Cat and Mouse Unfolds: Nico Williams, Arsenal's Elusive Target, Reveals the Truth Behind His Transfer Snub, and the Premier League Inspiration Driving His Ambitions - But Will He Ultimately Join the Gunners' Ranks?"

Nico Williams has revealed why he decided to remain at Athletic Bilbao last summer rather than complete a transfer away from the club.

The Spaniard was one of Europe's standout players as his nation earned Euro 2024 success and drew interest from the likes of Barcelona. Williams is also said to have been a player Mikel Arteta 'loves', though the finances involved in a deal proved prohibitive for Arsenal earlier this year.

The 22-year-old was reported to have rejected a move to Paris Saint-Germain last summer as he decided between a move to Barcelona or remaining in the Basque region. Ultimately, Williams decided to stay with his hometown club despite Barca sporting director Deco's desire to sign him.

Arsenal are said to retain some hope that Williams could yet relax his transfer stance. The Gunners are reported to be prepared to activate the star's release clause in the summer, and will not require sales to do so.

Their task does not sound simple however. The winger, who has recorded six goals and seven assists this term, does not believe he will find the same connection he experiences at the Estadio de San Mamés, anywhere else.

“This relationship we have at the heart of the club is incredible. Everyone respects everyone else, which is incredible," he told France Football.

"This atmosphere, I’ll never have it anywhere else. I decided to stay because of that. I took the decision I thought was the right one. I’m happy and I’m trying to do my best.”

Williams was further taken to task on his footballing inspirations. Asked who he modelled his game on, the young star delivered a surprise answer in return as he named three players.

Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to be top of a lot of players' lists but Williams also kept a close eye on a Crystal Palace legend. Wilfried Zaha, currently on loan at Charlotte FC, was a player that Williams could only look up to.

“Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo. I loved that type of attacker," he said. "And Wilfried Zaha, who I’ve not named yet. I loved him when he was at Crystal Palace. He was a player I loved. I cut my hair to look like him.

“I tried to dribble like them, copy them to the maximum and to move like them. To do 5 per cent of what they’ve done…”