Arsenal fans were hoping their club would land a big name this summer to strengthen their attack—but one major target might already be slipping through their fingers.
Nico Williams, the rising Spanish star lighting up LaLiga, reportedly has his heart set on a move to Barcelona.
And for Mikel Arteta and the Gunners, that’s a serious blow.
Gunners in the Hunt for Reinforcements After Injury Troubles
After a promising season that ultimately unraveled due to injuries up front, Arsenal have been actively hunting for attacking options to avoid another title slip-up.
Williams, a 22-year-old winger who plays for Athletic Bilbao, had been high on their radar.
With 11 goals and 7 assists in 45 games last season, he seemed like the perfect addition to Arsenal’s attacking arsenal.
Barcelona and Bayern Lead the Chase
But Arsenal aren’t the only ones interested. Both Barcelona and Bayern Munich have been in talks with the young winger, and according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, it’s Barca who now have the upper hand.
Williams has reportedly told Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, that he’s eager to make the move.
He’s especially excited about the idea of playing alongside fellow Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal and working under new boss Hansi Flick.
Williams Is Ready for the Next Step After a Breakout Year
It’s not hard to see why clubs are lining up. Williams had a standout performance at Euro 2024, where he scored in the final against England to help Spain lift the trophy.
With 28 national caps and six international goals to his name already, the winger has proven he can shine on the biggest stage.
Now, with his reputation soaring and interest growing, a summer move away from his boyhood club looks increasingly likely.
Barcelona Still Weighing Options With Eyes on Liverpool’s Diaz
Even as Williams signals his interest, Barcelona have other options on the table.
One of them is Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, who just helped his side win the Premier League under new manager Arne Slot.
Diaz, 28, contributed 13 goals and 7 assists in the league and was crucial to Liverpool’s title run.
But with no contract extension in sight and Liverpool looking to bring in players like Florian Wirtz, Diaz may be on his way out.
Spanish reports claim he’s already decided that it’s the right time to move on, and he has his sights set on Barcelona.
Price Tag May Complicate Diaz Deal
However, there’s a catch. Liverpool are reportedly asking for around £51 million for Diaz, and that could be a bit rich for Barca’s current budget.
With financial limits in mind, the Catalan club may have to choose carefully between Williams and Diaz—or see if they can work a more affordable deal for one of them.
What It Means for Arsenal
For Arsenal, missing out on Williams would sting.
He was seen as a potential game-changer, a fast, skillful winger who could bring more creativity and pace to Arteta’s side.
But unless things shift quickly, the Gunners might have to start looking elsewhere.
The transfer window is only just heating up, and with other top clubs circling, Arsenal’s next move could be crucial.