Arsenal transfer latest: Gunners learn Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams transfer stance

Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte has made it clear he wants to keep Arsenal transfer target Nico Williams. 

The Spain international is facing another summer of transfer speculation after being heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in 2024.

Williams ultimately stayed put at San Mames, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 29 La Liga appearances to help Athletic secure Champions League qualification via a fifth-place finish.

It remains to be seen whether Williams will still be at the club to help them in their first Champions League campaign since 2014-15.

Arsenal are among those who have been linked with a potential move for the 22-year-old in the summer transfer window.

Athletic set out Williams transfer stance

The Gunners are keen to sign a top-quality winger who has the ability to become a regular starter on the left side of Arsenal’s attack. 

The winger still has two years left to run on his Athletic deal, although his contract includes a £50m release clause. 

While Williams may have a release contract, Uriarte is still hopeful that Athletic can retain the services of one of their key players.

"I believe we have a winning and interesting project for everyone, and Nico is part of that project, just like many other players," the Athletic president told El Correo. 

"The project becomes easier if we keep our players - and I believe Nico and the rest of the squad have a very exciting year ahead."

Arsenal dealt blow in Williams pursuit

In addition to Uriarte’s comments, the player’s wage demands may dent Arsenal’s hopes of signing Williams this summer.

As per The Mirror, Williams is demanding in excess of £300,000 a week to become one of the highest earners in European football.

The attacker could still commit his future to Athletic, with the two parties believed to be in negotiations over a new contract.

If Arsenal are unable to sign Williams, they will likely turn their focus to one of their other wide targets for the summer window.

The Gunners are said to be interested in Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.