Arsenal have revived their interest in Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, opening fresh discussions over a potential summer transfer as his £77 million release clause comes to light, according to TEAMtalk.

The Gunners had shifted attention toward other attacking targets in recent months, but two significant setbacks have brought Williams back into focus. Morgan Rogers is set to join Chelsea, while uncertainty continues to surround the future of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. With those avenues closing or stalling, manager Mikel Arteta has turned back to Williams as a priority for Arsenal's left flank.

Talks under way as Berta opens dialogue

Sporting director Andrea Berta has held discussions with Athletic Club to gauge whether a deal is achievable. Williams, who turned 24 on July 12, is contracted to the Basque club until 2035 under an agreement he signed last summer.

The release clause embedded in that contract — reported at approximately £77 million — is described as well within Arsenal's financial reach. For context, Chelsea are understood to be paying around £40 million more for Rogers.

Spanish sources cited by TEAMtalk suggest Williams himself is open to a move to the Premier League and considers Arsenal an attractive destination.

World Cup winner with a final assist

Williams arrived at the FIFA World Cup 2026 carrying an injury and did not start any of Spain's matches as they lifted the trophy for the second time. He still contributed meaningfully, however, delivering the assist for Ferran Torres' extra-time winner in the final against Argentina — a deft header that set up the decisive moment.

Filling the left-wing void

Arteta is eager to add quality to his squad following Arsenal's first Premier League title in 22 years. The departure of Leandro Trossard — who has moved to Besiktas — has left a gap on the left wing. The club are expected to sign Greece international Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge, though securing Williams would represent a far more emphatic statement of intent from the newly crowned Premier League champions.

Landing a player who has now won both Euro 2024 and the FIFA World Cup 2026 would signal Arsenal's ambitions loudly in what promises to be a defining transfer window.