In a recent report, journalists Danny Rust and Dean Jones claimed that Arsenal are keen on recruiting Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer. It has been stated that the Gunners are big admirers of the Spain international but are facing competition from Barcelona in pursuit of him.
Williams’ Impressive Run Of Form In La Liga
Williams enjoyed a decent campaign at the Spanish club after he produced a string of impressive displays for them in front of the opponent’s goal. The Spanish wing wizard played in 37 matches for Athletic Bilbao last season, netting eight goals and grabbing 19 assists in all competitions.
The 22-year-old was a constant menace in the final third as he averaged 1.8 shots, 1.5 key passes and 2.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga football. He has even distributed the ball accurately in the opponent’s half based on his pass success rate of 79.2% in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).
Williams is under contract at the San Mames Stadium until the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for the Gunners to recruit him on a cut-price deal later this year.
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Get Williams On Board?
Williams is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few driving runs with the ball in the opponent’s half. He can shoot the ball with power and precision from long range. The Spanish wide player can even set up a few decent plays for others around him on the offensive end of the field. He mainly functions as a left-winger but can also play on the right flank if needed.
At 22, Williams has got the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. He recently helped Spain win the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament in Germany. Hence, the Gunners would do well to lure him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Williams would no doubt enhance the quality of Mikel Arteta’s first XI. He might even help the North London club compete for a lot of major honours over the next decade. Therefore, Arsenal would be wise to go all out to get him on board before the end of this summer transfer window. However, it remains to be seen whether Williams can maintain his good form in England.
