Arsenal hold talks to sign “electric” £87m winger

Some may dare to enjoy the view at the top of the mountain, taking in the sights and sitting back. The danger of that is the incoming avalanche threatening to wipe away any progress. Arsenal aren’t ones for sightseeing, however. As good a view as it is, the climb is far from over as far as Mikel Arteta is concerned.

The Gunners are set to make their return to the transfer market with plenty of intent this summer, and could solve some of their only weaknesses in the process.

It’s not a major surprise that Arsenal have set their focus on improving their frontline yet again. While Viktor Gyokeres’ numbers represented an out-and-out goalscorer who very much did his job, a deeper dive would expose the frailties of that frontline in big games.

It’s very telling that the big-money striker did not start the Champions League final and spent the campaign without a single goal against Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea in the Premier League. It’s a problem that Arsenal must solve.

Recent rumours suggest that is the plan in North London this summer, with the likes of Julian Alvarez now seriously on Andrea Berta’s radar. But the solution may not be as simple as another striker.

Gyokeres knows how to find the back of the net, he just needs the right service in big games – service that Nico Williams could provide.

According to TEAMtalk, Williams is assessing his options this summer as he weighs up his future. Sources close to the player have consistently told Arsenal that the winger is ‘open’ to playing in the Premier League.

The player’s respresentatives have already held conversations with the Gunners, as well as with Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City to keep them informed of the situation.

That said, this will not be an easy deal to do; he has a reported £87m release clause in his contract that Athletic Club will no doubt point to if any side comes forward.

Adding a new left-winger to their ranks has been a priority for those in North London so far this summer and Williams is reportedly open to a Premier League move in the coming months.

How Williams compares to Bukayo Saka

The only thing better than one Bukayo Saka is two Bukayo Sakas, and Williams would offer exactly that. The impressive winger is one of the best ball progressing wingers around, replicating Saka’s ability, and would slot straight into Arteta’s system.

At a time when the Premier League is threatening to enter a shell of pragmatism, a player of Williams’ directness, speed and intent would be undeniably refreshing – especially at Arsenal.

On the surface, nine goal involvements across the campaign highlight a struggling winger. When looking at Williams’ underlying numbers, however, this is a 23-year-old just waiting to discover his full potential.

With over three successful take-ons per game, the Spaniard is constantly committing markers – something that Arsenal’s frontline did not do enough last season. It is, however, something that Saka has done to a high level for many a year now.

The Gunners may be Premier League champions, but that doesn’t mean they have the complete package. They need an out ball that doesn’t come courtesy of a set-piece and at a time when Saka cannot play every week, Williams would provide the same threat. Like Saka, he’s more of a creative winger than a goalscorer, and he’s more of a ball carrier.

Dubbed “electric” by analyst Raj Chohan of the Premier League Panel, the £87m man will prove to be worth every penny of his release clause if he reaches his potential in the coming years.

It’s also worth pointing out that the biggest benefactor to his arrival would be Gyokeres. Whilst Williams drives Arsenal forward as their out ball, the Swede can do what he does better than most by sweeping up inside the six-yard box.

There’s still a lot for the Gunners to consider as they look to welcome a new left-winger, but Williams is certainly one to watch ahead of the transfer window.