Arsenal dealt Nico Williams setback as European giants 'move ahead' in transfer race

Arsenal have reportedly fallen behind Bayern Munich in the race to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta can currently call upon Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli as their main left-wing options.

However, they are seemingly keen to bring in a top-quality option to become their first-choice left winger for the 2025-26 campaign.

Williams is among those who have been mentioned as a potential target, although Arsenal may their work cut out to sign the Spain international.

Bayern move ahead in Williams race

According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal have fallen behind Bayern in the race to sign the Athletic attacker.

The Bundesliga champions view Williams and Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola as priority targets for the summer window.

Bayern are said to be willing to step up their interest in Williams, with the German giants seemingly ready to activate his €60m (£51m) release clause.

The Bavarians would still have to reach an agreement over personal terms, with the player said to be earning £6.7m a year at Athletic.

Why is Williams attracting significant interest?

Williams was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona last summer, but he remained with Los Leones after a move failed to materialise.

The 22-year-old went on to score 11 goals and provide seven assists in 45 appearances in 2024-25, helping Athletic finish in fourth place and reach the Europa League semi-finals.

Williams has also showcased his quality on the international stage, having registered six goals and seven assists in 28 appearances for Spain. 

Having built a reputation as one of Europe's brightest attackers, Williams continues to be linked with a move away from San Mames, although his current employers have not given up hope of retaining his services.

Athletic president Jon Uriarte recently insisted that the club are determined to keep Williams amid rumours that there are talks ongoing over a new contract.