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Barcelona could be set to beat Arsenal to another transfer target this summer after they met with Nico Williams' agent on Friday, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Catalan giants recently secured the signature of long-term Gunners target Joan Garcia after it was heavily reported that Mikel Arteta's side would be bringing him to the Emirates Stadium during the transfer window.
Romano revealed that Williams gave Barca a clear message that he would be open to joining the club this summer. Bayern Munich also met the winger's representatives with Arsenal still keeping him on their list. However, he claims Hansi Flick's side have their chance now.
Barcelona could beat Arsenal to Nico Williams deal
🚨 More on Nico Williams: Barcelona got clear message from the player on being open to joining the club this summer.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2025
Bayern are willing to make an effort, he’s still also on Arsenal list while Barça have their chance now.
🔴⚪️ Athletic are ready to offer new deal if he stays. pic.twitter.com/pNPAyhxuXU
Signing a striker is the headline of Arsenal's transfer business this summer, but bringing in a new winger follows closely behind. The club are looking for a world class player who can compete with the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.
The Gunners are long-term admirers of Nico Williams and are reported to have him high on their list of targets for the upcoming transfer window. However, it now looks as if they could be beaten to his signature by fellow suitors Barcelona.
The reigning La Liga champions have already put a spanner in the works of Arsenal and Andrea Berta's transfer plans once this summer, managing to convince Joan Garcia to choose them over a move to north London. Mikel Arteta had a backup however, having now turned to a likely deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Like their failure to win the race for Garcia, the Gunners also have alternative options to Williams. Real Madrid's Rodrygo has been a prominent name in recent weeks while links to Anthony Gordon have also emerged.
In an ideal world however, Arsenal don't miss out on signing the Spaniard. He is an unbelievably talented player and it wouldn't do their reputation in the transfer market any good if they are to miss out on yet another potential deal for one of Europe's hottest properties.
There is a real possibility the Gunners can still get their hands on him or he could even remain at current club Athletic Bilbao, but it does appear the ball is very much in Barcelona's court. Williams is open to a move and their pull as the current champions of Spain may be too much for Arteta's side to fight against.
It has to be said that Williams would be a great signing for Arsenal, but it wouldn't be the end of the world if they can't seal the deal for him. There are other wingers out there and that position isn't even the club's priority this summer.