Arsenal Dealt Major Blow in Nico Williams Pursuit

Arsenal’s hopes of signing Nico Williams this summer have taken a significant hit, with reports revealing that Bayern Munich have submitted a fresh offer for the Athletic Bilbao winger within the past 48 hours. The German giants are reportedly offering a net salary of €12 million per season, a figure that could prove difficult for Arsenal to match — both financially and structurally.

The Gunners have long admired the 22-year-old Spanish international, whose explosive performances in La Liga and for the national team have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after wide players. With a €58 million release clause, Williams had appeared to be a feasible option for Arsenal as they look to strengthen the left flank. However, Bayern’s growing interest and financial muscle now threaten to derail that pursuit.

Bayern Step Up Their Efforts

According to reports in Spain and Germany, Bayern Munich are not backing down in their chase for Williams. After holding several internal discussions and gathering positive scouting reports, the Bundesliga giants have now made their intentions clear with a formal proposal, including a wage offer of €12 million per year after tax — a staggering figure that could place Williams among the highest-paid players at the club.

Bayern are eager to rejuvenate their squad after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign and view Williams as a potential game-changer. His pace, flair, and work rate make him an ideal fit for the Bundesliga, and they are pushing hard to beat the competition to his signature — including from Arsenal.

Arsenal’s Position Complicated

While Arsenal have held talks with Williams’ representatives and made it clear they are prepared to meet his release clause, the player’s wage demands have become a sticking point. The Gunners are operating with a controlled wage structure and have been reluctant to offer massive contracts that could disrupt squad harmony.

Williams’ reported salary expectations — especially when compared to top earners like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice — may present a long-term risk that Arsenal are unwilling to take. Despite admiring the player and considering him a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s left-wing role, the Gunners may now have to reconsider their approach or look at alternative targets.

Player Yet to Make Final Decision

Although Bayern’s offer is strong, Nico Williams has not made a final decision on his future.

Williams has also been closely monitored by Barcelona, but their financial limitations have kept them from entering an aggressive bidding war, making this a likely two-horse race between Bayern and Arsenal.

Conclusion

Bayern’s latest move is a serious challenge to Arsenal’s hopes of signing Nico Williams. With a powerful salary package on the table, the pressure is now on the Gunners to either respond with an improved offer or shift focus to other targets. The race for Nico Williams is heating up — and Arsenal may be losing ground.