Arsenal transfer news: Rodri calls on Man City to join race for Gunners target

Arsenal could face competition for Nico Williams if they renew their interest, with Rodri urging Manchester City to join the race.

The Spanish winger was one of the breakout stars of Euro 2024, scoring in the final as his country claimed victory over England. After the tournament, there was a lot of clamor to sign the winger from Athletic Bilbao, with the Gunners among those leading the charge.

Williams opted to stay at San Mames even though La Liga has often sold their best players for the right fee. January presents another opportunity for Europe's top clubs to try to tempt the winger and Rodri wants City to pursue his compatriot.

He was asked by the host at an AS awards ceremony in Madrid on Monday night if he would “bring Williams to City tomorrow” – Rodri replied: “Yes, yes. If I took him now I would also take him to teach him a bit about the cold in England, although it is similar to Bilbao. But yes, I would take him without any doubt.”

Williams has a relatively modest €58m release clause in his contract with the Bilbao club, but his €200,000-a-week (£166,000) salary would have been a major hurdle for interested clubs in the summer window. .

However, these figures are unlikely to deter City if they look to make a move in the new year, especially as their season needs a fresh injection as they risk falling out of the title race, which also involves Mikel Arteta's side.

The North Londoners have a relatively established forward line. Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard have all been substituted as Arteta continues to shuffle his options across competitions.

When asked about his future in September, Williams showed no desire to leave Spain despite being moved by the increasing interest in him. He said: “It's always flattering to know that big teams have you on their agenda. But I always made it clear that I wanted to be here. Athletically it's a different feeling that you don't get at other clubs. I'm I'm watching really looking forward to doing well at this club.

“There were approaches from many clubs. My heart is with Athletic. I have a contract here but who knows what will happen in the future. I wanted to stay here because playing in Europe with Athletic was the thing I was most excited about .”