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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Nico Williams: Arsenal tipped to land 'dream' signing by triggering release clause

Arsenal have been tipped to sign Nico Williams in a "dream" summer deal and told to make a move for Victor Osimhen to solve their striker problems.

Williams has lit up Euro 2024 with a string of stunning performances as Spain made their way to Sunday’s final, prompting intense transfer speculation over his future at Athletic Club.

The winger reportedly has a £50million release clause and former Gunners man Emmanuel Petit believes Williams is a “dream” signing for Mikel Arteta.

"Arsenal’s dream signing this summer would be Nico Williams," Petit told bet365’s Euro 2024. "I've been watching him in Spain with his club, but he has impressed me a lot during Euro 2024, especially against Italy. It was a nightmare for the right-back. I think this guy could have a huge impact at Arsenal.”

Victor Osimhen is also attracting interest (Getty Images)

The Gunners want a new frontman after growing frustrated with the performances of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, and have already missed out on key target Benjamin Sesko this summer.

Amid links with the likes of Rodrygo, Viktor Gyokeres, Serhou Guirassy and Johan Bakayoko, it is Victor Osimhen who Petit wants to see in north London.

He continued: "People have also mentioned Benjamin Sesko, but I think Arsenal need to look at Victor Osimhen at Napoli, this guy has all the character he needs to thrive. He’s got great ambition and when I mention his character, he reminds me of players who were in the Premier League back in the day, huge characters.

"He will work incredibly hard on the pitch and Arsenal are desperate to get a real striker. Osimhen can hold two central defenders easily. He can play on the ground, he can play in the air. It will be important as well on set pieces. He would add quality to Mikel Arteta's team.”

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