Arsenal plotting shock late swoop for Nico Williams as Gunners consider activating Spain star's release clause

According to The Independent, Arsenal are considering a late move to sign Williams from Athletic Club but face a challenge to convince him to make the move. The winger has a £48 million ($63m) release clause and the Gunners are willing to pay it, although Williams' current preference is said to be remaining in Spain.

While Williams is said to harbour a long-term ambition to play for Barcelona, he rejected the club earlier this summer. He appears determined to remain in Bilbao, and that presents a significant hurdle for Arsenal to overcome.

Arsenal have been left frustrated throughout the majority of this summer window as they have failed to sign a new No.9, despite that being Mikel Arteta's preference at the beginning of the summer. Alexander Isak was a target but Newcastle had no desire to do a deal.

Arsenal are said to be willing to change their approach if they cannot agree a deal for Williams. Atalanta's Ademola Lookman is considered an alternative option.