“Guardiola is my good friend but the player has choosen to join Arsenal and I can’t force him”: Manager responds to Man city eye-watering bid to hijack Arsenal transfer despite player has agreed personal terms to join Arteta’s side

“Guardiola is my good friend but the player has choosen to join Arsenal and I can’t force him”: Manager responds to Man city eye-watering bid to hijack Arsenal transfer despite player has agreed personal terms to join Arteta’s side

Mikel Arteta is reportedly pushing for the January signing of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams to bolster Arsenal’s faltering title bid.

Arsenal journalist Charles Watts claims that Arteta sees the need for reinforcements in attack, believing the squad currently lacks depth in this area.

Williams, 22, has a release clause of €58 million—a figure within Arsenal’s reach after a relatively quiet summer in terms of big spending.

While his goal tally in La Liga this season stands at just one, his overall performances have caught the eye, showcasing pace, creativity, and an ability to unsettle defences. Arteta appears convinced that Williams could provide the spark Arsenal need in the campaign’s second half.

The challenge, however, lies in convincing the player. Reports suggest Williams favours a move to Barcelona next summer, which could complicate negotiations. Arteta will need to make a compelling case to bring the Spanish international to north London, presenting Arsenal’s ambitions and his own vision for the player’s role in the squad.

Reflecting on Arsenal’s approach to the transfer market, Arteta recently said: “The window gives us an opportunity to strengthen the team if we feel that is needed and we feel that we have the capacity to do that as well. We are on it and just have to assess the situation because it is changing every week.” His comments underline the club’s intent to make moves in January, with Williams seemingly high on their list of targets.

Another name linked is Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international currently excelling for Atalanta. Lookman, 27, would bring experience and a more consistent goal threat but could cost more than Williams and have less years left in his legs. Whether Arsenal opt for the younger, more affordable Williams or the established Lookman remains to be seen.

For now, Arsenal’s focus appears to be on Williams, and if Arteta gets his way, the Gunners could add a dynamic new dimension to their attack—provided they can convince the player to commit to their project.