Arsenal`s summer transfer window is shaping up to be unpredictable as the club works to fulfill its transfer targets under Andrea Berta. A surprising development has emerged regarding one of the club`s primary targets.
Arsenal actively working on key summer transfer deals
Since Andrea Berta arrived at the Emirates in March, there`s been considerable anticipation, and reports suggest he`s already made significant progress on key summer transfers for Arsenal.
Arsenal are pursuing multiple striker targets, including Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, and are also strongly linked with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Despite earlier widespread reports, including Fabrizio Romano`s `here we go` and BBC claims of a scheduled medical, Zubimendi has publicly denied that a deal is close.
Speaking to Radio Nacional (via Madrid Zone), Zubimendi addressed his future, stating, “`My future? It will be a long summer. I don`t know how it will end.`” He also dismissed rumours of being in London for a medical by posting photos from a Spanish beach: “`I did that to make it clear those rumors were not true.`” Regarding speculation about joining Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, he said, “`I`ve always said Xabi is my idol… It would be disrespectful to talk about that while I`m on national team duty.`”
| Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta | Money spent on new signings |
|---|---|
| 19/20 – winter | £0 |
| 20/21 – summer | £81.5m |
| 20/21 – winter | £900k |
| 21/22 – summer | £156.8m |
| 21/22 – winter | £1.8m |
| 22/23 – summer | £121.5m |
| 22/23 – winter | £59m |
| 23/24 – summer | £208m |
| 23/24 – winter | £0 |
| 24/25 – summer | £101.5m |
| 24/25 – winter | £0 |
Sources indicate that Berta has also held talks with the representatives of Athletic Bilbao`s promising player, Nico Williams, although his departure is also not guaranteed.
The Spain international turned down a move last summer to stay at Bilbao and may choose to do so again this year.
Nico Williams could reject Arsenal and sign a new contract
According to GiveMeSport, Williams might now reject a move to Arsenal and instead sign a new contract, which would be a setback for Mikel Arteta. Williams has reportedly not ruled out staying in La Liga privately.
Bilbao are reportedly in new discussions with Williams about extending his contract. The club apparently hopes to keep him long-term and increase his £50 million release clause.
Considering Arsenal have long been linked as strong contenders for the 22-year-old, with Berta personally involved in talks, this update is surprising, as Williams was widely expected to leave Estadio de San Mames in 2025.
Chelsea also held talks with Williams` representatives recently, according to journalist Simon Phillips, but they too may face a setback from this development.
The highly-rated forward provided 19 assists across all competitions in 2023/2024, played a key role in Spain`s Euro 2024 victory, and often showcased his talent with impressive performances last season.
