Barcelona winger target priortising stay in Spain over Arsenal transfer – report | OneFootball

As the season nears its conclusion, the transfer market is beginning to heat up. Just like last summer, one of the names expected to be in the spotlight is Nico Williams.

The Athletic Club winger, who was a target for Barcelona last year, continues to be on the Catalans’ agenda, who are in the market to reinforce the left flank.

However, Nico is also a target for Premier League giants Arsenal, who recently held a meeting with the Spanish international’s camp to discuss a possible transfer.

Nico prioritises Spain stay over Arsenal

However, according to The Telegraph (h/t SPORT), Nico Williams has made very high salary demands to join Arsenal, a move that is being interpreted in London as a sign that the player still prioritises staying in Spain, either by signing for Barcelona or staying at Athletic Club.

The meeting with the Athletic Club player confirmed Arsenal’s strong interest, but the parties appear to be far apart in negotiations.

The Londoners are willing to pay his release clause, which exceeds €60 million, but they are hesitant due to his salary demands. said to be around €15 million per year.

Man in demand. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)

Bayern Munich had also shown interest in Nico Williams in recent weeks but have now withdrawn from the race, instead choosing to wait for Florian Wirtz.

As a result, the list of potential suitors for the Spanish international is narrowing. In the Premier League, Manchester United have expressed interest, but their sporting project has not convinced the Athletic Club star.

What’s Barcelona’s stance?

Last summer, Nico opted to stay at Athletic Club despite Barcelona’s attempts to sign him. The move stalled due to the Catalans’ financial constraints and their inability to register the player under La Liga’s salary cap. So far, negotiations have not resumed.

Nico remains a highly sought-after player due to his quality and the fact that his transfer fee is fixed through his release clause.

Several clubs have engaged in talks with his representatives, and Barcelona are aware of the ongoing discussions. The Catalan club still consider the 22-year-old a viable option but have yet to make a decisive move.

Within the Barcelona dressing room, Nico is viewed as a valuable addition who could enhance an already talented squad.

While the winger clearly prioritises staying in Spanish football – either with Athletic Club or Barcelona – he remains open to listening to offers from teams like Arsenal. However, his higher salary demands for a move abroad could complicate any potential transfer.