Arsenal Receive Bad News In Their Hopes Of Signing Nico Williams

Arsenal’s hopes of landing highly-rated winger Nico Williams have taken a hit after fresh reports from Spain revealed that Athletic Bilbao have opened initial talks to renew the 22-year-old’s contract. According to sources close to the Basque club, negotiations are underway to not only extend Williams’ stay at San Mamés but also significantly increase both his salary and release clause — a development that could complicate any potential move to North London.

Williams, one of Europe’s most exciting young wide players, has attracted interest from several elite clubs, with Arsenal among those monitoring his situation closely. His current release clause is set at €58 million — a fee considered manageable by Arsenal’s standards, especially for a player of his age, quality, and potential. However, Athletic are now looking to safeguard their prized asset with improved terms that would both reward his growing stature and fend off growing interest from the Premier League and beyond.

Talks between Williams’ camp and Athletic reportedly include an increase in the winger’s salary to around €10 million per year, along with a significant rise in his release clause. Such a development would represent a major blow to Arsenal, who had been quietly optimistic about their chances of triggering his current clause this summer.

The Gunners are expected to be active in the market ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Mikel Arteta keen to add more firepower and directness in wide areas. Williams, known for his electric pace, dribbling ability, and work rate, was seen as an ideal addition to Arsenal’s frontline, potentially offering competition and cover for Bukayo Saka while also being able to operate on either wing.

However, if Athletic succeed in tying Williams down to a new long-term deal with an inflated release clause, Arsenal may be forced to look elsewhere. The club’s recruitment strategy, led by sporting director Andrea Berta and heavily data-driven, has often focused on value as much as talent — and any new deal that prices Williams out of a reasonable range could steer Arsenal away from the pursuit.

Williams has always been vocal about his love for Athletic Club and the importance of staying close to his roots. He enjoys a strong relationship with the fans and shares the dressing room with his older brother Iñaki Williams, who has long been a symbol of loyalty to the club. That emotional connection, combined with the financial package reportedly on the table, may ultimately convince the young forward to commit his future to Bilbao — at least in the short term.

While Arsenal may not be completely out of the running just yet, the timing and intent of these early contract discussions suggest Athletic are making every effort to retain their star man. For now, the Gunners will be watching developments closely — but their pursuit of Nico Williams just became significantly more complicated.