Arsenal target signs 10-year deal as transfer hopes collapse | OneFootball

Arsenal Target Nico Williams Signs New 10-Year Deal at Athletic Club

Long-Term Commitment Ends Transfer Hopes

Nico Williams has signed a new ten-year contract with Athletic Club, ending speculation over a potential summer move, according to Sky Sports. The 22-year-old, previously linked with Arsenal, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, has now committed to the Basque side until 2035.

Photo IMAGO

Williams’ new deal includes a significantly increased release clause, rising more than 50 per cent from his previous agreement which ran until 2027. The decision represents a major coup for Athletic Club, who have retained one of Spain’s brightest attacking talents following a superb summer in which Williams helped his country win the European Championship.

Photo: IMAGO

Speaking on the contract extension, Williams said, “When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home. Aupa Athletic!”

Arsenal, among others, had been closely monitoring the winger’s availability but will now need to look elsewhere in the market.

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Nico Williams felt like a perfect fit for Arsenal, pace, directness, youth, and recent international pedigree. He was the kind of talent who could elevate Arsenal’s wide play and offer serious competition to the existing front line. With Mikel Arteta reportedly a fan and Arsenal looking to add quality in wide areas, the interest felt credible, even promising.

But this contract? Ten years. Not just a commitment, but a statement. Athletic Club have not just secured a key player, they’ve slammed shut the transfer window in his direction. A release clause jump of over 50 per cent only reinforces how firm their position is.

It is rare in modern football to see that length of commitment from player to club. Arsenal fans will feel disappointed, perhaps even blindsided, especially after a summer of strong links. But there is also admiration for a player choosing loyalty and legacy over the pull of Europe’s elite. It is now up to Berta and Arteta to pivot and to do so swiftly.