Arsenal ended another season on the brink of the title; third in a row, same problems and same bitter taste. Despite competing strongly, the lack of attacking depth ended up being a heavy burden. Injuries, especially in attacking areas, left Mikel Arteta with few options.
At key moments, the team lacked spark. That’s why the management had already started to move. The name of Nico Williams began to circulate strongly in London. The idea was clear: to add quality and speed on the outside. However, plans do not always go according to plan. And now, the Gunners could have serious competition.
According to information published by Marca on 20 May and replicated by Football Insider, Real Madrid also have Nico Williams on their radar. The 22-year-old attacker has attracted attention after an excellent season with Athletic Club. His buyout clause is €58m, a figure that the white club would not see as an obstacle.
Danger for Arsenal, as Real Madrid in the race for €58m target
With Mbappé arrived and possible departures such as that of Brahim Díaz, Los Blancos are looking to add a different winger, with a youthful edge. Madrid’s interest complicates the picture for Arsenal, who had him on their list as a priority target to strengthen their attack.
For Arsenal, this situation represents a serious threat. The club have made efforts to approach young and dynamic figures. Nico fits the profile perfectly: quick, direct, technical. His performance at the European Championship last year could further inflate his value, and that gives Madrid an advantage. They don’t just have money. They have history, recent titles, and a project that seduces easily. If Florentino Pérez decides to make a serious move, the Londoners will find it hard to compete. It is the kind of battle Arsenal have not yet learned to win.
Should they lose the race, the club will have to react with a cool head. There are other wingers on the market. But Nico offered something hard to find: creativity without fear. Players like that are in short supply. If the Basque ends up at the Bernabeu, Arsenal would have to evaluate options such as Garnacho, although he would cost much more.
Another alternative is to look at Jeremy Doku or even look again at Moussa Diaby if there is an opening. The important thing is not to get stuck on one name. Although it hurts, not signing him should not be synonymous with failure.
There is, however, a different angle. If Real Madrid sign Nico, their attacking rotation will fill up, leaving other talents available. Gunners could take advantage of that domino effect. Rodrygo, for example, could start thinking about new horizons if he sees his role reduced.
In that context, Arsenal would have to be ready to move fast. The key will be to stay alert, with a plan B as convincing as the original. For if anything has become clear over the years, it is that the margins for winning titles are small, and every decision counts. Arsenal cannot afford to waste time.
