Arsenal were among the European giants keen on signing Nico Williams following his impressive performances at Euro 2024. The Spanish winger's agent, Felix Tainta, confirmed interest from the Gunners and explained why the player ultimately chose to stay at Athletic Bilbao.
After Spain's victory at the European Championship, Williams emerged as one of the most sought-after young talents in the transfer market.
Barcelona emerged as the frontrunner for his signature, with reports suggesting that Lamine Yamal personally wanted his international teammate at the Catalan club.
However, competition for Williams was far fiercer than initially anticipated.
In an interview with Marca, Felix Tainta revealed:
Everyone knows about Barcelona's interest in the summer of 2024 after the European Championship. Barcelona, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, PSG... I could list them all. Everyone wanted Nico, and turning down such clubs is never easy.
Why Nico Williams didn’t move to Barcelona
Tainta confirmed that negotiations with Barcelona had indeed taken place, and while Athletic's hierarchy was aware of the situation, they were not pleased with the methods employed by the Catalan club.
A primary concern was whether Barcelona could provide the necessary conditions for the player to excel.
Tainta explained:
Nico is a Formula 1 race car. If I come to you, I can't take on your problems. I made it clear to Barcelona.
We agreed that without certain guarantees, we couldn’t take the risk. Nico needs to play, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.
The agent stressed that it was crucial for Williams not only to sign with a big club but also to have the opportunity to get regular game time.
Williams was keen to leave Athletic
Tainta also admitted that initially, Williams did consider leaving Bilbao as a vital next step in his career.
The agent stated:
Nico was set on moving. He’s ambitious and knows the limitations of Athletic. You know you’re unlikely to win the Champions League here, or even the Spanish league.
However, the right offer never materialised. Gradually, both parties returned to discussing a new deal with the Basque club.
Tainta added:
When he kept saying, ‘Not here, not here, maybe there, but the terms aren’t right,’ another thought emerged: why not extend his contract?
I suggested this option, and he agreed. That’s how we ended up finalising the extension.
As a result, Williams signed a new long-term contract with Athletic, lasting until 2034.
Will Arsenal return for Williams?
The Gunners are expected to continue their search for a left winger next year. However, a return to pursue Williams seems unlikely.
The Spaniard is tied to Athletic with a long-term contract, and reports of his reluctance to leave the club complicate any potential negotiations.
Consequently, Arsenal will have to consider alternative options.
Among the potential targets for Mikel Arteta's side are Juventus' Kenan Yildiz and Brentford's Kevin Schade.
The saga surrounding Williams has shown that even with interest from several top European clubs, a transfer is never guaranteed. The Spaniard was willing to change clubs but ultimately chose to remain where his future looked more certain.
