Let Athletic Bilbao winger be.. Arsenal have plenty of other options

At this level, it’s time for Arsenal to maneuver on from Nico Williams.

Mikel Arteta has lengthy admired the Athletic Bilbao winger. His profile suits every part Arsenal are on the lookout for this summer time: two-footed, electrical in transition, technically sharp, and harmful in one-on-one conditions. Williams hardly ever overcomplicates issues, and his decision-making off the ball is unusually refined for a participant his age (22 years outdated).

On paper, he’s the right addition to Arteta’s broad choices, a pure improve on Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, with the added bonus of with the ability to cowl on each flanks. At simply £50 million due to his launch clause, Williams could be a cut price. However soccer transfers don’t occur on paper.

Reluctance and wages are stalling the transfer

Two vital obstacles are holding this deal again, and so they’re not going away. First is Williams’ reported wage calls for, that are stated to be steep and doubtlessly destabilising to Arsenal’s present construction.

Extra crucially, in accordance with Sport in Spain, the participant himself stays reluctant to go away La Liga. Barcelona’s lingering curiosity hasn’t gone away, and there are whispers that Williams would nonetheless choose to remain in Spain altogether. That’s not the type of power Arsenal want within the squad.

We’ve been right here earlier than. This has shades of Dusan Vlahovic, one other expertise who resisted a transfer to North London and has since drifted into switch limbo. Arsenal merely can not afford one other saga that stalls their wider technique.

Higher, and extra keen, choices are rising

This summer time is just not quick on elite winger expertise. Leroy Sané is doubtlessly accessible on a free. Rafael Leão, whereas costly, appears more and more open to a transfer. And Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz is already a named goal, with robust momentum constructing round a deal.

Arsenal’s assault wants reinforcing on each flanks, not least to lighten the load on Bukayo Saka. However that doesn’t imply they need to chase unwilling gamers. Nico Williams could tick all of the technical packing containers, however his hesitation speaks volumes.

Time to maneuver on, Gooners.. Which different winger possibility would you favor?

Daniel O

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