TERMS AGREED: Arsenal board ends Nico Williams’ transfer chase, agrees terms to sign a tricky winger who’s far better than Williams
Arsenal have identified Rafael Leao as a target, should they fail to sign Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, according to journalist Christian Falk.
After finishing second in the Premier League for a third successive campaign, Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta will be all too aware of the pressures they will face next season to win some silverware. For all the good work Arteta has done with the Gunners, it remains true that he has not won a major honour since the 2019 FA Cup.
The North London side have already been active in the transfer market, Arsenal having reportedly agreed a deal for Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad to bolster their midfield options. Arsenal have been linked with a number of players in the transfer window, with most expecting the Gunners to pursue a striker to bolster their options at the number nine.
It would appear that Arsenal are keen to reinforce their attack in more than one position, with two potential targets lined up for their flanks.
Arsenal Have a ‘Plan B’
Gunners are ready to make an attacking addition
Though Arsenal are definitely in need of striking reinforcements, the Gunners learned first-hand last season just how much their attack is impacted by the absence of either Gabriel Martinelli or, in particular, Bukayo Saka. The English international missed weeks of the campaign with a hamstring injury, which Arsenal clearly felt the effects of.
Leandro Trossard is a great squad player at Arsenal’s disposal, but Raheem Sterling, who joined the club on loan, had a minimal impact. As such, the Gunners have been linked with a move for Nico Williams, the Athletic Bilbao sensation who would certainly offer Arsenal another world-class wide option, just as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, another player linked to Arsenal, would.
Should they fail to acquire the Spaniard, however, Arsenal are well-prepared, according to Christian Falk who said on The Daily Briefing:
“Interesting. (Rafael) Leao shall also be Arsenal’s Plan B, if they can’t get Nico Williams.”
Since joining AC Milan in 2019, Leao has developed into “one of the best in the world,” having been moved out to the left wing early in his time with the Rossoneri. At 26 years old, Leao is approaching his prime years and just enjoyed yet another brilliant individual campaign in Italy.
Leao’s immediate future is unclear, with the Portuguese having been linked to a number of clubs as many wonder whether he will be on the move this summer. Should Arsenal fail to secure Williams, then Leao represents an incredible “plan B” for the club, one who could finally help them win another piece of major silverware once again.
