ARSENAL GIVEN CONDITION TO SIGN NICO WILLIAMS THIS SUMMER

Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar knows what he has to do this summer to sign Spanish Euro 2024 star Nico Williams

Arsenal will need to make some sales if they are to land Spain international Nico Williams this summer. Williams, who starred at Euro 2024 and scored in the final against England, has attracted significant interest.

Barcelona are also reportedly keen on the Athletic Club winger, who has a release clause of around £50 million, which would need to be paid upfront.

Arsenal have already confirmed their first summer signing, with David Raya completing a permanent move from Brentford for £30 million. Raya, Williams’ international teammate, was on loan at Arsenal last season and his permanent transfer has set the Gunners back significantly.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal need to sell in order to buy if they are to add a wide player like Williams. The club is also keen on strengthening other areas, with Italy and Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori high on their list.

One of the players who could make way is Emile Smith Rowe. Arsenal need to free up both space and funds, and the academy graduate would tick both boxes. The Telegraph reports that Fulham have made the England international a top target. Marco Silva’s side have already seen one bid rejected, but are expected to return with an improved offer for the 23-year-old.

Reiss Nelson’s departure could also facilitate a move for Williams. Sporting director Edu may be tasked with securing a fee for the 24-year-old winger, who is on the radar of West Ham United according to the Evening Standard.

Additionally, Aaron Ramsdale and Kieran Tierney could both leave before the end of the summer. While Tierney’s injury at Euro 2024 might impact a deal, Ramsdale’s pursuit of regular first-team football could prompt a summer switch amid Premier League interest.

Eddie Nketiah is another player linked with an exit. The striker signed a new contract in 2022 but struggled for playing time in the latter half of last season.

If Arsenal are unable to secure a deal for Williams, they will face stiff competition from Barcelona and Chelsea, although the latter cannot offer Champions League football. 

Some of the Arsenal fringe players could still be part of the squad as Mikel Arteta’s team begins their pre-season tour of the United States. They are set to face Bournemouth on July 24, followed by matches against Manchester United and Liverpool.