Arsenal handed Nico Williams ‘lifeline’ as fresh bid for key target ‘prepared’

The countdown to the 2025/26 season is now well and truly on, with Arsenal’s pre-season training set to get underway later this month.

Mikel Arteta’s side are preparing for what promises to be a crucial campaign, as their pursuit of silverware continues. The Gunners enjoyed a strong season both domestically and in Europe last term, but the next step of securing a major trophy must come sooner rather than later for this current group of players.

There’s plenty going on behind the scenes in the transfer window, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi expected to arrive. However, further reinforcements, particularly in attack and defence, will be needed if Arsenal are to remain competitive on all fronts.

Here, football.london rounds up the latest transfer news and rumours involving the north London club…

Arsenal handed Nico Williams ‘lifeline’

One player who continues to be linked with a move to the Emirates is Athletic Club’s Nico Williams. The Spain international has long been on Arsenal’s radar but has so far remained loyal to his boyhood club, having progressed through their academy.

That looks set to change this summer, though it is Barcelona who have emerged as frontrunners for his signature. Widespread reports in recent weeks suggest the player has expressed a preference for the Catalan giants, despite interest from Arsenal and Bayern Munich.

However, if the latest reports are to be believed, the move may not be as straightforward as initially thought, potentially paving the way for other suitors to hijack the deal. According to Mundo Deportivo, concerns over guaranteed registration and high agent fees have become sticking points in negotiations.

While Barcelona are reportedly confident of triggering Williams’ release clause, Athletic Club have pushed back, urging La Liga to investigate whether Barcelona have the financial capacity to register new signings.

football.london says: This is certainly one to keep an eye on as the summer unfolds. Until a deal is signed and sealed, anything can happen in the unpredictable world of transfers. It’s worth noting that Arsenal could pivot to alternative targets, making any potential Williams deal redundant. But, if he’s still on their radar, Barcelona’s financial struggles could create an unexpected opportunity for the Gunners.

Fresh bid for key target ‘prepared’

Elsewhere, Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera. It was widely reported last week that the Gunners had agreed on personal terms with the player and now only need to strike a deal with his club.

According to Sport Witness, Arsenal are preparing a renewed offer in hopes of reaching an agreement with Valencia in the coming days. The 21-year-old central defender has just one year remaining on his current deal, but Valencia continue to hold firm on their £17 million valuation.

football.london says: All signs suggest this deal is progressing well, which is welcome news for Arsenal, especially after missing out on Dean Huijsen earlier this summer. Mosquera fits the ideal age profile and, given his contract situation, represents a smart market opportunity. His arrival would add depth and provide healthy competition among Arsenal’s centre-back options.