Bayern Munich Leads Race to Sign Nico Williams Amid Arsenal Interest

Bayern Munich has emerged as the leading contender to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer, designating him their top transfer target after missing out on Florian Wirtz. The German club is prepared to trigger Williams' €60 million release clause, though salary demands—reported to be significantly higher than Bayern's typical offers—pose a major negotiation challenge. Bayern's head coach reportedly favors Bradley Barcola from PSG, but Williams is viewed as the more financially feasible option amid complicated negotiations with PSG over Barcola. Arsenal, along with other top European clubs like Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Manchester United, have shown interest in Williams, but Bayern appears to be ahead in the race, having accelerated talks and discussions recently. Athletic Bilbao is attempting to convince Williams to extend his contract with a salary increase and higher release clause, which could effectively block a summer transfer. Despite Bilbao's president expressing optimism about retaining Williams, the player's openness to a move to Bayern and the club's readiness to meet the release clause make a transfer this summer a strong possibility.