Arsenal are ready to go all-in for Nico Williams after Chelsea’s £117m swoop for Morgan Rogers left the Gunners scrambling for a left-sided attacker. With the Premier League restarting in a month and the club sitting top of the table with zero points, Mikel Arteta’s side must act fast to plug the gap before the window slams shut.

Why Arsenal want Nico Williams now

Arsenal have been chasing a direct, pacey winger for over a year, and Williams fits the bill. The Athletic Bilbao star’s €90m/£77m release clause sits well within Arsenal’s transfer budget, and with Leandro Trossard already sold, the left flank remains a glaring weakness. Williams has racked up 35 goals and 32 assists since 2022/23, but his injury record - 19 missed matches last season alone - is a red flag. Still, only Dani Vivian, Yuri Berchiche and his brother Iñaki have played more minutes for Athletic in that span, a sign of his reliability when fit.

The competition for Williams is heating up

Arsenal’s pursuit of Williams comes as United and Liverpool circle Bradley Barcola, another long-term Gunners target. Barcola’s move to North London looked closer a few weeks ago, but now looks far less likely. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s record-breaking £117m bid for Rogers - the most expensive British transfer ever - has left Arsenal’s midfield plans in tatters. The Blues’ cash and ambition have reshaped the market, forcing Arteta to pivot quickly.

What Arsenal would get for their money

Williams brings elite speed and directness, terrorising defences down Athletic’s left. His 11.56% conversion rate and 49.51% shooting accuracy aren’t world-beaters, but his 230 chances created since 2022/23 prove his creative impact. The question is whether he’d accept Arsenal after snubbing Barcelona last year. With the new season kicking off in 30 days and Williams due a rest after World Cup exertions, Arteta needs clarity - fast. League standing: 1st in Premier League, 0 pts.

The clock is ticking

Arsenal’s transfer business has stalled this summer. Saliba’s World Cup exit and a serious back problem that could require surgery have added to the gloom. Williams represents a chance to inject fresh energy into the attack, but time is running out. The next fixture - a home clash with Fulham on 2027-02-20 - looms large, and Arteta’s side can’t afford another transfer misfire.