Arsenal’s dream Nico Williams transfer plan scuppered as £80m opportunity arises

Arsenal are finally getting their transfer business underway after over a month of speculation. The Gunners are yet to make an addition to Mikel Arteta’s first team but that is likely to change soon.

Their pursuit of Bologna and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori seems to be moving in the right direction, although Chelsea remain interested in signing him. Reports have indicated that the north Londoners have made a long-term proposal to Calafiori following Italy’s Euro 2024 exit.

As well as signing the 22-year-old, Arsenal remain in the market for players in different positions. There is still plenty of time for them to get their business before the transfer window shuts but there will be hope they can sign at least one player before the pre-season trip to the United States.

Here, football.london takes a look at the latest reports from the world of Arsenal.

Rashford Man United future

Marcus Rashford has, so far, been a one-club player. At Manchester United, the forward has become one of United’s most important players but his future now seems uncertain.

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The Gunners could be one of the clubs keeping tabs on his situation, despite there being no concrete interest as of yet. According to The Sun, offers of around £80m would be enough to tempt United to sell the England international.

football.london says: “The thought of Rashford departing Man United feels a weird one, but seeing him represent Arsenal would be a complete shock to the mind.

“After 402 games in the red side of Manchester, Rashford could finally be about to leave the club and where better to go than another Premier League side looking to become champions of the country? His £80m price tag may put some off but his quality over the years do justify it.

“It isn’t a move that would necessarily make sense when considering the Gunners’ strategy over the recent years. But, he is capable of playing down the left wing and through the middle, meaning he does follow the trend of Arteta wanting players offering versatility.”

Nico Williams preference

One attacker who Arsenal look increasingly likely to miss out on is Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. The winger has enjoyed a standout Euro 2024 with Spain, leading to his services being in high-demand.

Arsenal had previously been scouting him prior to the tournament but other clubs have now joined the race following his performances for Spain. Chelsea and a number of other Premier League clubs are said to be keen.

However, Sport and MD have reported that Barcelona is his preference should he leave Bilbao this summer. Spain teammates Pedri and Lamine Yamal are said to have played a part in his decision.

football.london says: “A Spanish player preferring a move to Barcelona instead of the Premier League? It’s hardly surprising to hear, is it? Williams has adapted to senior football in Spain well over the years and the opportunity to play for one of the biggest names in the world is a big opportunity.

“However, the 21-year-old is highly-talented and it would have been interesting to see how he dealt with the adaptation to the Premier League. In my opinion, he would have been the perfect fit for Arsenal with his dynamic offensive play proving to be a problem for defenders.

“One that clearly wasn’t meant to be and Arsenal will have to turn their attention to another forward.”