Arsenal’s pursuit of Nico Williams appears to be over after he signed a new 10-year contract with Athletic Club.
The Gunners are long-term admirers of Williams and the club want to sign a new wide forward this summer.
Williams has also been attracting interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich, who also want to sign wingers during the current transfer window.
The 22-year-old, however, has committed his future to Athletic by signing a new contract with them that runs until 2035.
“When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is my heart. I am where I want to be, with my family, this is my home,” said Williams. “Go Athletic!”
Williams’ previous contract was due to expire in two years and it contained a release clause of €58million (£50m).
The winger’s new deal not only extends his stay by eight years, but it also increase that release clause by 50 per cent.
💥 Nico Williams signs eight-year contract extension at Athletic Club, until 2035.
— Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) July 4, 2025
The red and white winger will stay the next ten seasons at the club of his heart and his release clause increase more than 50% over the previous one.#NicoWilliams2035 #AthleticWIN 🦁
Arsenal have other wide players on their shortlist, including Real Madrid star Rodrgyo. They also been linked with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon of Newcastle.
The Gunners are looking to bolster their squad this summer as they aim to end their five-year wait for silverware next season.
Arsenal have already completed the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa for £5m and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is joining as part of a deal worth over £50m.
The Gunners are working on a deal for Brentford captain Christian Norgaard and there is optimism that will get done.
