Arsenal and Chelsea are both in the race for Nico Williams, though they have reportedly been dealt a big blow with the Spaniard now looking likely to be joining Barcelona, after recent talks. As one of the most exciting young forwards on the continent, Williams has attracted a lot of interest from big teams, despite Athletic Club’s best efforts to keep their man.
Arsenal and Chelsea Snubbed as Nico Williams Signature is Most Likely Barcelona’s
Barcelona in ‘Important New Negotiations’
Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Barcelona currently have the “best chance” of signing Williams this summer, amidst interest from Chelsea, Arsenal, and even Bayern Munich. This comes after “important new negotiations” that have reportedly taken place in the last 24 hours.
However, suitors do have a glimmer of hope as Joan Laporta, Barcelona’s president, is “assessing whether a transfer is feasible and if Williams can be registered”. The Blaugrana have had issues with registering players in the past, and if there are financial barriers to the move, this race could be blown wide open.
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Fans shouldn’t get their hopes too high, though, as if Barca do get the green light, the move is expected to happen, as manager Hansi Flick is “determined” to sign the “elite” winger.
Who Will This Hurt More: Arsenal or Chelsea?
Fabrizio Romano reported last week that Williams is top of Arsenal’s list, whilst also reporting that Bayern Munich were meeting the player’s camp. The news of Barcelona’s potential success will surely sting the Gunners, as their left-wing spot has looked pretty dismal for the past two years. Gabriel Martinelli has struggled to recreate his 2022/23 form, whilst Leandro Trossard has somewhat impressed off the bench, albeit not consistently.
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Considering their striker problems, Arsenal could really do with a world-class left-winger to match Bukayo Saka’s output on the right, if they want to contend for European or domestic titles.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have their eye on Jamie Bynoe-Gittens this summer. Despite not completing the deal before the Club World Cup, they intend to continue negotiations after it. Perhaps signing the young Englishman would help soften the blow, although Enzo Maresca appears to be concerned with his wide depth, stating that “Jadon Sancho has left so we only have three proper wingers now”, when admitting that they are in the market for a new winger.
