Arsenal are planning the most ambitious transfer move of the Mikel Arteta era

Mikel Arteta knows his Arsenal squad will need to be added to in January if they are to return to the Premier League title. That’s why they are targeting Nico Williams in a move that could drastically reshape the race for the league title.

Credit to the Gunners for planning the most ambitious move of Arteta’s tenure in charge of the club. Dozens of European clubs are keen to add the dynamic Athletic Club winger to their ranks. Arsenal are not the only club willing to pay his £58m release clause.

It appears Arsenal are one of a small number of clubs willing and able to potentially meet Williams’ contract demands. He is in no rush to leave Athletic before the end of his current contract. The reason he has rejected offers from other clubs up to this point is that he is looking for a massive wage package in return for a move away from his current club.

If the Gunners are to sign Williams, they may have to make him their best servant. Such a decision would have ripple effects throughout Arteta’s squad. Several senior players would immediately look to renegotiate their deals to achieve pay parity with the newcomer.

On the pitch, Williams is a pure fit for Arsenal. He would give Arteta’s squad a big boost following the injury to winger Bukayo Saka. Wiliams should be able to beat out the likes of Leandro Trossard and Raheem Sterling for the starting spot on the right wing opposite Gabriel Martinelli.

Time will tell if Arsenal are able to seal the deal on this sensational transfer, but it is a real signal of intent on the part of the club to further back their manager on the way to what they hope can be a legitimate battle for The Premier League title. Fans of the club should be encouraged by the potential outcome of their January transfer window.