Arsenal suffer blow in race for Nico Williams as he agrees Barca's deal

Nico Williams has moved a step closer to completing a blockbuster move to Barcelona this summer, according to a report.

The Athletic Bilbao winger, who has been sought after by the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea in recent season, has reportedly agreed personal terms with the LaLiga champions.

The Blaugrana are desperate to bolster their attacking options, particularly on the left flank, with sporting director Deco revealing last month that the side were interested in acquiring Marcus Rashford or Luis Diaz in the window.

However, according to Fabrizio Romano, the 22-year-old has agreed on a six-year contract with the five-time European Cup winners with a salary in the region €7m-8m (£6m-7m).

Despite having a release clause believed to be around £50m, Barca still need to agree on a financial package with the Basque club.

Bilbao are believed to want the sum for the forward paid in full, while Barca favour a package that would involve payments in installments.

Earlier this month, news of Williams' preference to remain in the Spanish top flight and join Barcelona came as a hammer blow to Arsenal, who are also keen to bring in a left-sided attacker this summer.

Williams hopes to link up with Lamine Yamal and Hansi Flick at the Nou Camp. Barcelona targeted Williams last summer and are now back in the market for a winger.

The Spanish international made his mark as one of the most promising wingers in the world after starring at Euro 2024 alongside Yamal.

He scored Spain's opening goal in the 2-1 final victory over England in Berlin and has so far made 28 appearances for the national team, scoring six times.

Last season he scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 45 appearances for Athletic Club as they finished fourth in LaLiga.