Real Madrid enter race to sign €58million Arsenal transfer target

Mikel Arteta and Arsenal have been long-term admirers of Nico Williams (Picture: Getty)

The Spain international winger came close to joining Barcelona last summer following his exploits with Spain at Euro 2024 where he played a key part in La Roja’s triumphant campaign.

Indeed, they also looked at signing him 12 months ago but his preference has always been to remain in Spain while his £170,000-a-week salary was understood to represent a significant stumbling block.

Williams now appears certain to leave his boyhood club, Athletic Bilbao, during the close season and Real are now positioning themselves as favourites to sign him, according to Marca.

After missing out on La Liga, Real are set to undergo a significant rebuild over the coming months with Xabi Alonso ready to take over as head coach from Carlo Ancelotti.

A deal for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has already been agreed, while Alonso is said to be driving a move for Martin Zubimendi despite widespread reports claiming the Real Sociedad midfielder has already agreed to sign for Arsenal.

Nico Williamshas a release clause of €58million (Picture: Getty)

Real are keen to build a new-look team around a young Spanish core and Williams, who has a €58million release clause in his contract, fits the bill perfectly.

Florentino Perez, who is overseeing Real’s transfer business, was handed a significant boost on Tuesday when Barcelona pulled out of the race to sign Williams.

Asked about Barca’s interest in Williams, Barcelona president Laporta told TV3: ‘He was one of the candidates we were looking at when we were evaluating options.

Real Madrid want to build a new-look team around a young Spanish core (Picture: Getty)

‘We have a good profile of this player, who is an excellent player, but I think at this moment they are evaluating other options.’

Speaking more generally about Barcelona’s transfer plans for the summer, Laporta added: ‘First we have to assess what we have and once we have done this analysis we will possibly reinforce some of the positions.

‘The issue of goalkeeping has to be seen… because in goalkeeping experience is a degree. I think the Tek [Szczesny] thing has gone quite well and I hope it continues.’

Want to get bespoke updates on your team? Sign up to Metro's Football newsletter and then tell us which club you support