Arsenal's pursuit of Nico Williams has taken a twist as Chelsea have also emerged as contenders for the winger's signature.
The Gunners have been outstanding offensively in recent times and are on a run of 31 goals in their past seven matches. Many, including club record signing Declan Rice feel this has proved that calls to sign a striker in January were overblown.
«I think that was a narrative that we weren't creating chances, that we needed a No.9, but in all honesty, we have been playing like this all year,» he told reporters on Monday night after Arsenal's 6-0 win over Sheffield United. «All season we have been playing really well. Obviously the goals weren’t as free flowing as they are now, but that was never a problem that we needed a No.9 — because we have got Gabi [Jesus], we have got Kai [Havertz], we have got Eddie [Nketiah] and we have got Leo [Trossard], who can play as a false nine. Goals are going to come.
»So I don't think that has ever been a big problem. I think now we are really in our groove and we are looking really threatening in front of goal."
Still though, Arsenal are keen to bolster the forward areas this summer and are assessing the market for potential additions. football.london understands that Nico Williams has emerged as one of these. Arsenal are thought to be admirers of the Spanish international who can play anywhere along the front line and has scored six goals and managed 11 assists this season.
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Williams has a release clause of around £43million in his contract with Athletic Bilbao. That price could be
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