Arsenal receive fresh Nico Williams transfer boost as huge January decision made

Arsenal look to have been handed a huge Nico Williams transfer boost ahead of the January window. The Gunners were one of many top clubs in Europe interested in signing the Athletic Bilbao star following his excellent performances with Spain at Euro 2024, but he opted to stay in the Basque Country.

Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham have all shown an interest alongside Arsenal, with the 22-year-old believed to have been Mikel Arteta's priority attacking signing ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Ultimately, with Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya signed permanently, it was not a deal that could be completed because of profit and sustainability concerns. Instead, Arsenal signed Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan from Chelsea on deadline day.

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With that as a temporary solution, interest from Emirates Stadium likely still remains with Williams continuing to shine at Bilbao. While not quite at the level he showed in Germany just a few months ago, he has still contributed to seven goals from 18 appearances in all competitions this season.

Just a few weeks ago, in the 1-0 win over Real Sociedad, Williams showed off his pace and final ball quality with the assist in that La Liga victory. Even though he chose to remain in Bilbao for the time being, his future has continued to be a major talking point, however he has since admitted where his focus lies is very clear.

Speaking to El Mundo in October, he said: "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 Mames."

Despite those comments, a big update on a possible transfer away from Spain has emerged. According to the Athletic, Williams is now more open to a Premier League move than previously, but would prefer to not move in the January trading period.

Based on that information, Arsenal's chances of signing Williams next summer look to have increased significantly and he was likely just one of many targets discussed between Arteta and the Kroenke family during their meeting in the United States last month.