Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Arsenal are set to go head-to-head with Premier League rivals Chelsea this summer in a race to land one transfer target.
It is likely to be a busy summer for Arsenal.
The Gunners’ preparatory work for the upcoming summer transfer window is already very much underway. Sporting director Edu insists that Arsenal have already decided upon their transfer targets. However, the window itself is reliably unpredictable and chaotic by its nature, and many plans that have been carefully constructed by this point will go out of the window quickly once the market opens and unexpected opportunities arise and unforeseen offers come in.
The north London club can be almost certain about a few things coming to pass, though. For instance, Arsenal are aware that Aaron Ramsdale will be on his way out of the club this summer. It has also been decided that Cedric Soares will leave Arsenal as a free agent come the end of the season, with. Mohamed Elneny likely to follow suit.
Meanwhile, despite a clamour for his stay at the Emirates Stadium to be extended, Jorginho still faces an uncertain future. Arsenal are also open to offers for their trio of Hale End academy graduates, Reiss Nelson, Eddie Nketiah, and Emile Smith Rowe.
In terms on incomings, Arsenal have been linked with a number of strikers. Mikel Arteta will recognise the need for a midfield rebuild. A winger is also on the agenda, with Nico Williams having been mooted as a target.
Arsenal and Chelsea in fight to sign Nico Williams
Fabrizio Romano, writing in his Daily Briefing, has now provided an update on the current situation regarding Williams. He said, “Nico Williams has also been monitored by Arsenal and his €50m release clause is there. I’ve been saying for a while that there are multiple clubs closely following the situation. It’s not only Arsenal, but Chelsea have also been scouting the boy but many other clubs too. It’s looking like being a really open race.”
In terms of financial muscle, Chelsea can likely match anything Arsenal would be able to put on the table as a wage package for the 21-year-old attacker. Both clubs will feel that his £43 million release clause is well within reach.
However, the Blues are currently languishing in mid-table, whilst Arsenal are riding high in pole position in the Premier League and are also competing in the latter stages of the Champions League, which surely makes the north London outfit a more attractive destination.
Why Arsenal want Nico Williams
The Athletic Bilbao man has been described as “incredible” by his teammate and brother, Inaki Williams. His numbers are certainly impressive. So far this season, the forward has racked up 6 goals and 13 assists in 29 appearances, across all competitions.
Williams is also comfortable operating on either flank, meaning he can provide much-needed cover and competition for both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Pedro Neto has also been considered for this role, but Arteta has been warned off signing the Wolves ace due to his injury record. In that sense, Williams seems like a safer bet and he still has his best years very much ahead of him.