Arsenal in trouble with Spain stars whispering in ear of Chelsea target Nico Williams

Nico Williams looks set to be one of the big movers during this summer's transfer window - but Arsenal are at risk of missing out.

Both the Gunners and Chelsea have been closely linked with the Athletic Bilbao sensation, while Barcelona are also believed to be a frontrunner for his services. And certain Spain team-mates have wasted little time in taking on the role of agent at Euro 2024 as they look to boost their clubs' chances of signing the player.

That could leave Mikel Arteta's side trailing in the hunt for Williams, who has a £46.5million release clause in his contract. Barca gem Pedri was among those to admit he's trying to lure the 21-year-old, who scored one goal and provided an assist in Spain's recent 4-1 victory over Georgia.

"Nico Williams would be a spectacular signing for us at Barcelona, it'd be incredible," he told Mundo Deportivo (via The Mirror). "He's a player who is already showing what he's capable of. I hope he can join us!"

When asked about the extent of discussions regarding a move for Williams, the Camp Nou talisman added: "We don't talk about it much. It's a decision that he and Barca have to make. There are a lot of things that have to happen."

However, it's not just La Liga players who are trying to persuade the winger. Chelsea's Marc Cucurella has also expressed his desire to see Williams join him in west London.

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"I've been telling Nico Williams to come to Chelsea, but everything depends on him," the full-back revealed in an interview with Catalan daily Sport. "He's young and has a lot of experience. I think he will be a great player."

Arsenal do have one representative in Luis de la Fuente's Spain camp after activating their clause to sign David Raya from Brentford on permanent terms. However, there's been no sign as of yet regarding the goalkeeper's own machinations to get Williams to north London.

Williams' standout performances for Athletic last season already carved him out as a top prospect prior to his impressive displays in Germany this summer. The Pamplona-born winger, younger brother of Athletic icon Inaki Williams, notched up eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 games for Los Leones last term.

Ernesto Valverde - the ex-Barcelona boss now at the Athletic helm - is unlikely to want to lose such a prized asset to a rival club. Selling to England may therefore be the preferred alternative, but there's a chance the Gunners are playing catch-up if they do want to make a move on his signature.