Arsenal’s interest in Nico Williams hits a financial roadblock, with the Athletic Bilbao star’s £50m release clause and £300k weekly wages complicating a January move.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Nico Williams, the 22-year-old Spanish winger from Athletic Bilbao, faces a significant financial hurdle despite his status as Mikel Arteta’s top target.
The Gunners are prepared to meet Williams’ £50 million release clause, but his wage demands—reportedly exceeding £300,000 a week—pose a considerable challenge for a club already grappling with a tight budget.
The Athletic Bilbao star, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, has attracted attention from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, with David Ornstein reporting that Arteta is keen to bring him to the Emirates this month.
However, Ornstein also notes that the move is “highly unlikely” during the January window due to the combined cost of his release clause and salary expectations.
Further complicating matters is Williams’ lack of urgency to leave Bilbao, where he remains under contract. While a summer transfer appears more realistic, Arsenal’s current injury crisis—losing Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri—has fuelled speculation that the Gunners may still attempt to negotiate a deal before the January window closes.
The winger has scored two goals with five assists in 24 appearances this season.
Arsenal, however, will need to balance their financial priorities carefully, especially after heavy investments in Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, Mikel Merino, David Raya and Jurrien Timber in recent summers.
Arsenal’s need for reinforcements is pressing, as their recent 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle United highlighted. Yet the prospect of meeting Williams’ financial demands remains a stumbling block.
With Barcelona reportedly out of the race and Williams showing increased openness to a Premier League move, Arsenal could revisit their interest in the summer.
For now, Arteta may need to find alternative solutions, as the club looks to close the six-point gap to league leaders Liverpool.
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