Arsenal Revive Stunning Move for Spain Star Williams as Mikel Arteta steps up plans to strengthen the left side of his attack ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season. The Gunners are actively searching for a new winger following Leandro Trossard’s expected move to Besiktas and growing uncertainty surrounding Gabriel Martinelli’s future.
According to reports, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has reopened discussions over a deal for Nico Williams, a player the club has admired for several years. The Athletic Club winger is once again emerging as a serious target if Arsenal can convince him to leave Bilbao this summer.
Williams was heavily linked with Barcelona during a high-profile transfer saga in 2024, but he ultimately chose to remain with Athletic Club and signed a new contract. Despite that decision, Arsenal have continued to monitor his situation and are now reportedly back in the race.
The 23-year-old endured an injury-hit 2025/26 campaign, making 20 La Liga starts, but he still showed his quality on the biggest stage. Williams was included in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad for the 2026 World Cup and played a decisive role in the final by providing the assist for Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner against Argentina.
That contribution has only increased his value, and Williams remains one of the most highly rated wide attackers in European football. With Athletic Club failing to qualify for Europe for the 2026/27 season, the Spanish side could be more open to a major sale as they look to balance their finances.
A £77 million release clause is still active in Williams’ contract, and reports suggest the fee is considered affordable for Arsenal. However, Arteta may need to generate funds through player sales before making a formal approach.
AS Arsenal Revive Stunning Move for Spain Star Nico Williams it would represent a significant statement of intent. Williams offers explosive pace, direct dribbling, and the ability to stretch defenses from the left flank — qualities Arteta is eager to add as the champions prepare for another title challenge and a deeper push in the Champions League.
If Arsenal can clear space in the squad and meet the release clause, the Gunners could finally land one of their longest-standing transfer targets in what would be one of the standout moves of the summer window.
In other transfer news, Arsenal have Join Man Utd in Exciting £60m Race for France Star Manu Kone as the summer transfer window begins to heat up, with the Premier League champions reportedly entering the battle for the highly rated Roma midfielder.
Kone, 25, enhanced his reputation during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he played a vital role in France’s run to the semi-finals. Operating as part of Didier Deschamps’ defensive midfield shield, the powerful midfielder impressed with his ball-winning ability, composure in possession, and tactical discipline against some of the tournament’s strongest opponents.
Manchester United have been tracking Kone since June, and the midfielder is believed to be one of the key names on their shortlist as Michael Carrick continues rebuilding his engine room. United have already added Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, but Carrick is still eager to bring in another athletic, defensively strong midfielder capable of competing at the highest level.
Kone’s involvement in the World Cup means he is not expected to return to club duty until early August, ruling him out of the opening stages of preseason for both Roma and any potential new club. United are due to begin their summer tour of the United States at the end of July, and Carrick is reportedly hoping that the club’s early approach will give them an advantage in negotiations.
However, French outlet L’Equipe claims Arsenal’s interest is genuine, with Mikel Arteta identifying Kone as a valuable addition ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
The Gunners are already reshaping their squad after the departure of Leandro Trossard, while uncertainty continues to surround the futures of Martin Ødegaard and Christian Nørgaard. Arteta is keen to strengthen the midfield with a player who can provide defensive cover, physicality, and the ability to progress the ball through pressure — qualities Kone displayed consistently for both Roma and France.
Roma’s financial situation could open the door to a deal, with the Serie A club reportedly willing to consider offers of around £60 million. That valuation has alerted several Premier League clubs, but the growing rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester United is emerging as the most intriguing part of the story.
France Star Manu Kone could become one of the defining transfer stories of the summer. Landing a midfielder of Kone’s profile would not only strengthen their title defence but also add depth and energy to a squad preparing for another demanding domestic and European campaign.
With both clubs pushing hard and Roma open to a sale, the race for Kone now looks set to become one of the Premier League’s most closely watched transfer battles.