BREAKING NEWS: took the decision’ – Nico Williams opens up on reason for Arsenal transfer choice

Latest Arsenal updates and transfer speculation as former Arsenal target Nico Williams has spoken about his choice to remain at Athletic Bilbao.

Nico Williams of Athletic Club was previously linked with a move to Arsenal.

Arsenal’s summer transfer target Nico Williams has discussed his decision to reject interest from other clubs and commit his future to Athletic Bilbao.

The 22-year-old winger came through the La Liga club’s academy and has experienced a rapid rise since breaking into the first team during the 2021/22 season. Last summer, he was a key figure in Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign.

His stats, with eight goals and 16 assists last season, drew interest from several elite clubs, including Arsenal and Barcelona. Despite speculation over a potential move, Williams chose to remain at his childhood club, where he is contracted until 2027.

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Speaking recently to *France Football*, Williams discussed his choice to stay at Bilbao, admitting he would struggle to find the same environment elsewhere. “This relationship we have at the heart of the club is incredible,” he said.

“Everyone respects everyone else, which is incredible. This atmosphere, I’ll never have it anywhere else.

“I decided to stay because of that. I took the decision I thought was the right one. I’m happy and I’m trying to do my best.”

Arsenal urgently need attacking reinforcements due to ongoing injury issues this season. However, their interest in Williams and efforts to strengthen the left wing stem from uncertainties surrounding Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.

Mikel Arteta is currently without Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Martinelli due to injuries, which has impacted the team’s Premier League form. Although they had been competing with leaders Liverpool for much of the season, Arsenal have struggled to take advantage when their rivals have dropped points, and their hopes of overtaking the Merseyside club in the title race have faded in recent weeks.