Mikel Arteta ‘pushing hard’ for Andrea Berta to sign €70 million star | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly making a strong push to bring Athletic Club winger Nico Williams to the Emirates, with incoming sporting director Andrea Berta tasked with making it happen.

The Arsenal boss is determined to add the Spanish winger to his squad and wants Berta to leverage his deep connections in LaLiga to finally convince the 22-year-old to make the move.

Berta, who spent over a decade shaping Atletico Madrid’s recruitment strategy, was chosen to replace Edu largely because of his extensive experience, fluency in Spanish, and strong relationships across Spanish football.

Unlike Williams, Arsenal have already made major strides toward signing Martin Zubimendi and Benjamin Sesko. The outlet reports that talks with Zubimendi’s club, Real Sociedad, are progressing well, and the midfielder has agreed to the move.

It’s thought that the Gunners are prepared to trigger Williams’ release clause, which is estimated to be between €55m and €60m.

Arsenal shift focus away from big-money signings for the summer window

Sverre Nypan of Rosenborg could be headed to England to join Arsenal. (Photo by Malcolm Mackenzie/ProSports/Shutterstock)

David Ornstein recently reported that Arsenal’s recruitment strategy has shifted toward younger prospects. Norwegian wonderkid Sverre Nypan is one name under serious consideration, with talks at an advanced stage. Arsenal could sign him alongside another young midfielder to develop for the future.

As for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, Arteta remains a big admirer. However, a summer transfer appears unrealistic due to Newcastle’s firm stance and the Swede’s high price tag. Arsenal see Sesko as a better-value alternative, which is why he has been a primary focus since last year.

The Gunners also continue to monitor Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and could make another attempt to sign the England international in the coming months.