Arsenal have been forced to turn their attention to other transfer targets after Barcelona director Deco said Nico Williams wants to join the Catalan giants.
Williams has been a long-term target for Arsenal but their hopes of signing the 22-year-old Spain star are looking remote.
Deco says Williams is keen to join Barcelona, leaving Arsenal focus on other targets including Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.
“Yes, Nico Williams wants to come,” said Deco. “And we will try!
“Nico, same as other players, is showing a strong desire to come… and if the right conditions are met in his case, we’ll definitely try to complete the deal.
“To sign a player, you have to follow the right steps. In this case, everything is very clear. He has a [release] clause. Then we'll see how we can make what the player and the club want happen.”
Arsenal have been strongly linked with Rodrygo as Mikel Arteta targets a top-class wide player, while the Gunners continue talks over both Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres.
Rodrygo could cost almost £70million but his big wage demands could be a stumbling block.
Arsenal are closing in on a £51m deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as well as the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea.
Talks with Thomas Partey over a new contract appear to have hit a stand-off, leaving his future uncertain ahead of his contract expiring at the end of the month.
