Athletic Club probably thought that after fending off interest from Barcelona in the summer, they would have Nico Wiliams at their disposal until the summer at least. But Premier League giants Arsenal could come calling.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta is keen for his side to activate Williams' €60 million release clause in the winter transfer window. Chelsea and Liverpool are also interested, but Arteta believes they need him as soon as possible. That said, the fact that they would have to pay his release clause in full, and factoring in a potentially high salary, means a deal in the summer is much more likely. The Gunners may have to engage ownership to approve the deal in January, and are keeping an eye on Barcelona's Dani Olmo and Paris Saint-Germain's Kang-In Lee as alternatives.
Even if his release clause is triggered, it seems unlikely that Williams will agree to leave mid-season. He showed how important Athletic are to him this summer by avoiding a potential move to Barcelona, and the prospect of a Europa League final is now just months away for the Basque giants. Williams could then be on the market next summer, where he will have his choice of top clubs.
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