La Liga star’s agent confirms Arsenal wanted him

Nico Williams' agent, Felix Tainta, has confirmed that Arsenal were among several top European clubs actively pursuing a permanent transfer for the Athletic Club winger. Tainta revealed that Williams considered leaving, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Paris Saint-Germain also expressing interest before the Spanish international committed his future to Athletic Club.

A move broke down after Williams signed a ten-year contract extension through 2035, which included a release clause increase of over 50%. Tainta noted that Williams ultimately chose loyalty to his breakthrough club, while writer Dan Critchlow notes the higher buyout effectively made any potential deal impossible for Arsenal.