Nico Williams has become one of the sagas of the summer transfer window.

Williams, 22, shone for Spain during the European Championship success in Germany, and a reported £50 million release clause inserted into the player’s contract at the start of December has attracted attention from across the continent. Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have reputedly made offers, while Arsenal and Chelsea are two Premier League clubs credited with an interest in the player.However, the Gunners are keen on signing a forward over the next month, and Mikel Arteta greatly appreciates the Athletic Club winge.Williams previously promised to play at least one season in European competition with his older brother Inaki. The Bilbao-based club have not played in the Europa League since 2018, two years before he debuted for the senior side.

Nico Williams has emerged as one of the stars of the European Championships this summer. Many Premier League clubs have reportedly shown an interest in the Spain international with both Arsenal and Chelsea being linked to the Athletic Club wide man.

Williams has shown versatility to play on either flank for the Basque side but has predominantly played on the left this season with that form continuing into La Roja. Looking at what Arsenal need and the desire to strengthen the forward option is focused on the right-hand side as Mikel Arteta seeks competition and cover for Bukayo Saka.

The England international has been heavily used by Arteta with little in the way of significant depth to allow for rest. While a centre-forward appeared to be of greater attraction to Arsenal

That does of course not rule out the possibility of a winger and the links to other forwards like Xavi Simons and Pedro Neto would support that. However, Williams’ name remains some way off a move from Arsenal at present with the club looking at other targets but it is important to point out how quickly things can change in the market.

From his performances for Spain alone, Williams is sure to garner plenty more attention as the tournament goes on should his displays show little sign of dipping. However, for potential suitors, there has been something of a blow already after the winger spoke openly of his happiness in Bilbao.

“I am very happy in Bilbao, it is the club that has given me everything. I am clear where I will be for the pre-season, that’s all,” he told Cope. “I have told my agent that I do not want to know anything until the Euros is over.”