Athletic Bilbao send Nico Williams transfer message to Arsenal ahead of Man Utd clash

Ernesto Valverde remains *”hopeful”* that Nico Williams will remain at Athletic Bilbao for many seasons to come, even though speculation continues to mount regarding a potential summer transfer to Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s team has identified strengthening their attack as a top *”priority”* during the summer transfer window, after injuries to key forwards undermined their pursuit of the Premier League title this campaign.

Williams is expected to be under *”consideration”* once more, after Arsenal’s unsuccessful attempt to acquire the 22-year-old in the wake of Spain’s triumph at *”Euro 2024.”*

Andrea Berta, the newly appointed sporting director at the club, is reported to have already met with the winger’s representatives to talk over a possible deal, with Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and possibly Barcelona also showing interest.

The winger, who has netted 11 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions this season, currently has a €58 million (£48.4m) *”release clause”* in his contract.

Now recovered from a slight groin problem, the Spanish international is poised to play for Athletic in their upcoming Europa League semi-final first leg against Manchester United.

Valverde is *”hopeful”* the talented forward can help Athletic in many more major European fixtures in the future.

‘He has had a very good season and there has been some *”speculation,”*’ said Valverde in his pre-match media appearance on Wednesday.

‘We *”hope”* he stays with us next season and for years to come because we aim to keep the *”best players.”*

Williams, on his part, has remained guarded regarding his future, as talk of a transfer increases ahead of the window.

‘The only thing I’m focusing on at the moment is reaching this *”(Europa League) final,”*’ Williams told El Desmarque last month.

‘All my energy and concentration is fully on that. Everything else will be decided later. I’m feeling very *”happy”* right now.’

Athletic currently sit fourth in La Liga and are on track for a Champions League spot, whereas United are struggling in 14th and must win the Europa League to secure European football next term.

Although United have had a shaky beginning under Ruben Amorim, Valverde anticipates a serious challenge from the Premier League side on Thursday.

‘There are many factors we must assess with *”Utd,”*’ he explained. ‘They excel at set-pieces with players like Hojlund, Maguire, and De Ligt if he’s involved, and have strong shooters like Fernandes.

‘They’re a large club with major *”capabilities.”* If you concentrate on one thing, you risk overlooking the rest.

‘Ten poor minutes can eliminate you, and ten excellent minutes can keep you in it – that’s what *”happened”* to United in the previous round (against Lyon).

‘These are knockout matches and you must understand how to navigate them. Be prepared for all scenarios.’

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