Arsenal make decision on Nico Williams transfer – Ornstein

Arsenal and Chelsea have both cooled their interest in Athletic Club superstar Nico Williams amid increasing rumours of a summer move to Barcelona.

The Spain international has been linked with a Premier League switch for the best part of a year, following his immense form at the 2024 European Championship, and Arsenal have been monitoring his situation for several months.

Chelsea also identified Williams as a key target amid their pursuit of a new right-footed left winger, however both London giants have now “cooled” their interest in the 22-year-old, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

Reports in Spain indicate that Williams has now firmly set his sights on completing a blockbuster summer move to Barcelona, with Fabrizio Romano recently confirming that a meeting has taken place between the Spaniard’s representatives and the hierarchy at Camp Nou.

The football transfer news expert has also revealed that Barcelona are set to trigger the €58 million release clause included in Williams’ current Athletic Club contract.

As a result, despite significant transfer interest, Arsenal and Chelsea are now seen as unlikely destinations for Williams and Barcelona are the clear frontrunners in the race for his signature as things stand.

Nico Williams to join Barcelona?

Bayern Munich are also eager to finalise a deal for Williams and they have already presented the player with a contract offer, as per Ornstein.

However, he appears to have chosen Camp Nou as his preferred next step and he is expected to link up with international team-mate, and close friend, Lamine Yamal next season.

Bayern have reportedly identified AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Kaoru Mitoma and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola as alternative targets to Williams if he opts to join Barcelona as expected.

Meanwhile, Arsenal and Chelsea could be set to battle for Jamie Gittens’ signature amid significant interest in the Borussia Dortmund winger.

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