Nico Williams' pledge keeps him in the Basque Country, spurning Arsenal and PSG

Arsenal’s Premier League champions bid for 24‑year‑old winger Nico Williams was rejected after the Basque Country native, who is contracted with Athletic Club until 2035, told Sport Witness over the weekend that he turned down Paris Saint‑Germain, Barcelona and Euro European suitors, insisting his loyalty lies in North London’s rival city and a recent Fleetwood Town cup tie.

Williams signed an extraordinary decade‑long extension with Athletic Club at San Mames last year, binding him to the club until 2035. The 24‑year‑old remains a key figure in the Basque side’s attack.

European interest peaks after Euro 2024

Following his role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, the winger attracted attention from Arsenal, Paris Saint‑Germain, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool, according to his agent Félix Tainta. Tainta also mentioned that Inaki Williams, Nico’s brother, was displeased with the media coverage of the interest. Despite the buzz, the player affirmed that the speculation did not alter his plans.

"I told Barcelona, Arsenal, PSG and many others… no," Williams said, adding that the final decision rested with him, his brother and their family. He stressed that no one "held a gun to my head" to force a move.

Valuation and recent form

Transfermarkt values the winger at €40 million. Since Euro 2024 he has managed only 12 league goals, with injuries and a dip in form limiting his impact.

Arsenal’s summer transfer window saw them abandon attempts to sign Vinicius Jr or Julian Alvarez and instead bring in Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge. The Gunners will travel to Fleetwood Town for their next Carabao Cup fixture.

Mikel Arteta has long admired Williams, who rose to prominence ahead of the 2022 World Cup and has since become a key player in two major titles for the Spanish national team. His brother Inaki also highlighted the family’s pride in his decision.

Williams concluded by urging understanding of his choice, confirming his future is firmly tied to Athletic Club until the 2035 contract expires.