Real Madrid are reportedly set to join the pursuit of long-term Arsenal transfer target, Nico Williams.
The Spain international winger was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona last summer following his impressive performances for La Roja during their triumphant Euro 2024 campaign.
Arsenal, who are planning a significant overhaul of their forward line this summer, hold the 22-year-old in extremely high regard. The Gunners also considered a move for Williams 12 months ago, but his preference at the time was to remain in Spain, and his reported £170,000-a-week salary was understood to be a major obstacle.
However, Williams now appears almost certain to leave his boyhood club, Athletic Bilbao, during the upcoming close season. According to Spanish outlet Marca, Real Madrid are now positioning themselves as favorites to secure his signature.
Following their recent dethroning as La Liga champions, Real Madrid are set to undergo a significant rebuild in the coming months, with Xabi Alonso widely expected to take over as head coach from Carlo Ancelotti. A deal for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has already been agreed, and Alonso is reportedly also driving a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, despite widespread reports linking Zubimendi with Arsenal.
Real Madrid are keen to build a new-look team centered around a young Spanish core, and Williams, with his €58 million release clause, perfectly fits this profile. Florentino Perez, who is overseeing Real’s transfer business, received a significant boost on Tuesday when Barcelona reportedly withdrew from the race to sign Williams. This development could clear the path for Real Madrid to make a strong push for the talented winger.