Real Madrid have joined the hunt for Athletic Club sensation Nico Williams as they look towards a possible summer reboot under new boss Xabi Alonso. The Los Blancos are considering a transfer for the winger, with Arsenal also in hot pursuit. The two clubs believe the 21-year-old will be an asset going into the 2025/26 season.
Williams has caught the eye of some of Europe’s largest clubs following a run of good performances in La Liga. His pace, creativity, and directness make him one of the most promising attacking threats in Spain. With a €58 million release clause included in his contract, clubs are hovering—and Real Madrid and Arsenal both look set to pounce.
A switch in system widens the doors at Real Madrid
With Xabi Alonso set to join the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, a change in tactics is on the horizon. The Spaniard will likely adopt the 3-4-3 formation he employed to such effect with Bayer Leverkusen. This transformation might require fresh profiles out wide, particularly if incumbent forward Rodrygo Goes leaves.
Real Madrid’s pursuit of Williams mirrors their wider desire to develop both tactically and commercially. Club administrators are said to be enamored with the winger’s dynamism and marketability. His enthusiastic vigor and capability to play in fast-tempo systems may be an ideal match for Alonso’s vision.
The club finds his €58 million release clause reasonable for a player of his quality and potential. If they move forward, the transfer could be sealed in a flash—assuming they can persuade the player.
Arsenal are still genuine contenders for the winger
Arsenal are also monitoring Williams closely. Mikel Arteta has made it clear that depth in wide areas is a summer priority. The Gunners are already well-stocked on the flanks, but with Champions League football secured for next season, Arteta wants more rotation options.
Williams embodies the type of young, dynamic, and adaptable player Arsenal want. He is capable of playing on either flank and has a direct threat in one-on-ones. His work rate in defence also resonates with Arteta, who likes his full-backs to be disciplined and structured in their wider roles.
Though Real Madrid might seem the more glamorous prospect, Arsenal might be able to offer more playing time immediately. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli regularly playing in all competitions, Williams might bring much-needed competition and support down wide.
The biggest challenge remains getting the player on board
Despite the clause being publicly known, triggering it alone won’t be enough. Williams needs to be convinced on the project. Real Madrid have the glamour of trophies and heritage, but Arsenal can provide a defined role and stable football in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Reports suggest the player is weighing his options carefully. He wants regular minutes and a defined role at whichever club he joins. As of now, there is no indication that he has committed to either side. Real Madrid are hoping their reputation and the ability to integrate into a team full of young stars such as Jude Bellingham and Endrick will sway the decision in their direction. Yet Arsenal’s recent revival under Arteta and their balanced team may make North London just as attractive.
Nico Williams became one of the first major transfer targets for Real Madrid and Arsenal over the summer. Both clubs are willing to take the plunge with a €58m release clause on the player. While Xabi Alonso readies himself to reorganize Madrid’s system and Arteta continues to bolster Arsenal’s title-hunting team, the fight for Williams may become one of the defining stories of the summer transfer market.
Which club do you believe Nico Williams would fit in at? Let us know in the comments below!
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