Nico Williams sends fresh Arsenal transfer message as Mikel Arteta 'eager' to make £50m offer

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is likely in the process of finalising plans for the upcoming January transfer window. Though the Gunners plan to be reactive rather than proactive, Arteta may be keen to strengthen his squad mid-season ahead of what will likely be a thrilling Premier League title race.

Following their 3-0 victory at home to Nottingham Forest, Manchester City and Liverpool endured very different returns to action following the November international break. Tottenham thrashed Pep Guardiola's side 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium while the Reds came from behind to beat Southampton.

In terms of possible winter window signings, there are limited options but it could be an opportunity for Arsenal to sound out players ahead of next summer's trading period. Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao remains in the thoughts of Arteta while a new name is seemingly under consideration by those within Emirates Stadium.

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With that being said, football.london rounds up the latest Arsenal transfer rumours with January fast approaching.

Williams message

Though he has refused to entertain speculation over his future, Arteta will undoubtedly still be keeping a close eye on Williams. If that is the case, he would have likely been impressed by his display for Bilbao in La Liga action against Real Sociedad.

The Spain international created four chances in the game and his determination directly led to a goal. Having battled to keep hold of the ball in the penalty area, Williams was found in space with his lofted cross headed home at the back post by Oihan Sancet.

football.london says: "With Williams continuing to impress after shining at Euro 2024 this past summer, it is no surprise Arsenal were strongly linked to him.

"The Gunners are still arguably missing that versatile attacker that can make something out of nothing, but signing Williams would certainly change that. Given his scintillating form and commitment to Bilbao, Arsenal will definitely face a battle to secure his services.

"Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz are others being linked but Williams will likely cost significantly less with Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen setting hefty asking prices, respectively."

Reijnders interest

Brazilian outlet Fichajes have claimed that Arsenal could be ready to make a significant offer for AC Milan star Tijjani Reijnders with Mikel Arteta eager to sign him. The Netherlands international, valued at £50million, has been in superb form this season with seven goal contributions arriving from 15 games in all competitions.

After a disappointing start to their Champions League campaign, Reijnders has been key to Milan winning their last two European games which included a huge win at holders Real Madrid.

football.london says: "Signing a midfielder like Reijnders would be a significant coup for Arsenal given his profile. The 26-year-old is able to thrive in a number of roles with his ability to provide in front of goal a huge trait if the Gunners do not bring in an elite-level striker.

"Recruiting in central midfield may not currently appear a priority, following the recent arrival of Mikel Merino, though the uncertain futures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho could see it quickly become one.

"Reijnders will have three years remaining on his contract in the summer of 2025 and thus selling while his stock is so high may be the best course of action for Milan. However, if he continues delivering on a regular basis it is very likley that other clubs will take an interest."