Arsenal are targeting a €49m “pace demon” who could be lethal alongside Bukayo Saka.
Despite a quiet summer transfer window so far, there’s no sense of concern at the Emirates. Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu are focused on strengthening their squad. Arsenal’s recent success has been marked by their ability to bounce back from setbacks and build a balanced, elite-class team.
Recently, Benjamin Sesko decided to stay at RB Leipzig, disappointing Premier League fans. The 21-year-old Slovenian striker’s decision was likely wise, as he aims to build on last season’s 18 goals in 42 matches. While signing a center-forward has been a priority for Arsenal, the strong form of Kai Havertz and a lack of top alternatives might shift their focus to other positions.
One of Arsenal’s targets is Nico Williams, Spain’s Euro 2024 star and Athletic Bilbao winger, according to The Athletic’s Pol Ballus. Williams, known for his speed and trickiness, has garnered attention from several Premier League rivals and Barcelona. Arteta hopes Arsenal’s recent success will attract the 21-year-old. Williams has a €58m (£49m) release clause, making him a feasible target now that Arsenal has shifted focus from the striker position.
Williams, who grew up in the Basque Country, has had a remarkable career so far. Playing alongside his brother Inaki, he helped Bilbao win the Copa del Rey last season, their first trophy in 40 years. Last season, he scored eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 appearances, showcasing his speed and power.
FBref data highlights Williams’ impressive stats: he ranks in the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for assists, top 20% for shot-creating actions, top 7% for progressive carries, and top 6% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes. These traits make Gabriel Martinelli a similar player, although Martinelli struggled last season with eight goals and five assists in 44 matches. In contrast, Williams averaged 1.5 key passes and 2.8 dribbles per match, outperforming Martinelli.
Williams’ superior final-third quality would make him an upgrade on Martinelli, providing Arsenal’s forwards with more scoring opportunities. Although not yet a prolific goalscorer, Williams excels at creating chances for his teammates, enhancing the team’s overall attacking fluidity.
Williams has already demonstrated his impact with Spain at Euro 2024, notably in their 1-0 victory over Italy and 3-0 win against Croatia. His electric style on the left flank could complement Bukayo Saka on the right. Saka, one of English football’s brightest talents, scored 16 goals and made nine assists in 35 Premier League matches last season. His creative prowess and consistent performances were crucial for Arsenal.
Pairing Williams with Saka could provide the perfect balance on the wings, opening up numerous options for captain Martin Odegaard. Odegaard, a master distributor, ranks among the top 4% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for assists, top 2% for progressive passes, and top 1% for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes. With Williams and Saka on the flanks, Odegaard could exploit their overlapping quality to dismantle opposing defenses.
In summary, Arsenal’s potential signing of Nico Williams could significantly enhance their attacking options, creating a dynamic partnership with Bukayo Saka and offering more opportunities for their forwards.
