Barcelona have abandoned their pursuit of Nico Williams, clearing the path for Arsenal to sign the Athletic Bilbao and Spain sensation in the summer transfer window.
Williams is widely considered to be among the most promising young talents in world football and a host of Europe’s elite clubs have been credited with an interest in the 22-year-old winger.
Barca identified Williams as their primary transfer target last summer and the Catalan giants relentlessly pursued a deal for the attacker both in the build-up and throughout Spain’s European Championship campaign.
The constant speculation surrounding Williams’ future even prompted Athletic to issue a scathing statement which criticised the Spanish national team for failing to ‘protect’ the youngster from what they described as a ‘bombardment’.
However, Williams eventually decided to stay on with Athletic for another season and the Euro 2024 winner has been in fine form this term, racking up ten goals and seven assists in all competitions.
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The likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Chelsea are all believed to be keeping tabs on Williams’ situation, while Arsenal have come to the fore as a leading frontrunner for the Spaniard’s signature.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are satisfied with their current attacking options and have therefore dropped out of the race for Williams.
It’s claimed Barca are not yet looking to find a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski and club bosses are confident both Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo are ‘more than enough’ for next season.
The report adds that the time to sign Williams ‘has passed’ and the La Liga leaders are now focusing their attentions on strengthening in both central midfield and across their defence.
Earlier this week, Spanish outlet Sport reported that Williams had set a deadline of July 15 for his future to be resolved, with the player keen to get a full pre-season under his belt – whether that be with Athletic or elsewhere.
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Williams’ current contract runs through to 2027 and contains a €60million (£51m) release clause.
Athletic have not given up hope of keeping hold of their star man for at least another year, but contract talks have come to nothing and their hand could be forced when the summer transfer window opens for business.
In September, Williams stressed that he was ‘very happy’ at Athletic, but uncertain what his next steps were beyond the end of the season.
‘There were approaches from many clubs. I did well at the Euros and that’s a great showcase,’ he said.
‘I had many clubs to choose from but my heart is with Athletic. I’m happy here, I’m very happy here.
‘God knows what will happen in the future.’
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