Mikel Arteta quizzed on Arsenal's interest in Nico Williams ahead of Champions League meeting with Athletic Club

Arsenal were strongly linked with Williams during the summer transfer window, with reports suggesting the Gunners explored a deal to bring him to the Premier League. The 22-year-old winger, however, chose to remain with Athletic Club, signing a new deal to continue his development in Spain. Arteta has now opened up on the links, but played down the reports.

When quizzed on Arsenal’s reported pursuit of Williams, Arteta was cautious in his response. He told reporters: “I can't say anything about that. All I can say is that Nico is a fantastic player, and they enjoy him every week here and with the national team. I can't say much more.”

Arsenal had been handed the prospect of seeing Williams perform against them in the Champions League opener as the Gunners face Athletic Club. However, the Spain winger will not take to the field as he suffered an injury on international duty, and may not be back in action for another couple of weeks.

The Gunners will aim to secure an opening-day victory in the Champions League that would give them a strong foothold in the league phase. Athletic, meanwhile, will hope their home crowd can inspire an upset despite missing their talisman. Williams will focus on recovering quickly to avoid a prolonged spell on the sidelines.