Arsenal handed £68m transfer twist as surprise Nico Williams announcement made

Arsenal handed £68m transfer twist as surprise Nico Williams announcement made

Arsenal’s pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams has taken an unexpected turn, with reports emerging that the Spanish international has agreed to a new contract with his current club. The Gunners had been heavily linked with a move for the 21-year-old, whose previous release clause stood at £43m—a figure that had attracted interest from several top European sides.

However, in a surprising announcement, Williams has reportedly committed his future to Bilbao, with his new deal said to include a revised release clause of £68m—a significant increase that could complicate any potential transfer.

For Arsenal, this development presents both a setback and a decision point. While Mikel Arteta’s side remains keen on adding explosive wide talent, the inflated fee may force them to reconsider their options. With competition for top-tier wingers fierce, the Gunners could now turn their attention to alternative targets such as Pedro Neto or Moussa Diaby.

Will Arsenal test Bilbao’s resolve with a big-money bid, or will they walk away? One thing is certain—the transfer saga is far from over.