Arsenal target Nico Williams sent frank transfer warning over Barcelona move

Nico Williams' team-mate Oscar de Marcos has warned the in-demand winger against a move to Barcelona this summer.

The Spain international, 22, is one of the most sought-after players in Europe after playing a starring role in this summer's European Championship finals and continues to be linked with Arsenal.

Unfortunately for the Gunners, Barcelona are also avid admirers of the gifted wide-man and are hopeful of convincing him to stay in Spain instead of pursuing a move to the Premier League.

Williams has a £49million (€58m) release clause in his contract and it's likely he will be able to pick his destination if he does leave Athletic Bilbao this summer - but De Marcos has reminded his team-mate that "not everything that glitters is gold".

Speaking candidly in a press conference, the Athletic Bilbao midfielder said: “There is a belief that when Barca wants you, there is a logic that you have to go to Barcelona. And if you don't go, you are making a mistake. You must keep in mind that not everything that glitters is gold.”

Williams plundered two goals and an assist for Spain in their triumphant Euro 2024 campaign including a pivotal goal in the final against England. His reputation skyrocketed during the tournament as a result of a number of impressive displays and he is exactly the type of player that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is thought to want in order to supplement his current attacking options.

While Williams has a fairly modest release clause in his contract in relation to his ability and potential, it remains to be seen if Barcelona would be able to afford to sign him given their previous financial issues.

Despite the constant speculation over his star man, Athletic Club boss Ernesto Valverde cut a relaxed figure when pressed about Williams' future.

“I have no doubts about Nico,” he said. “He looks good and happy. This year we have many challenges ahead of us and I'm sure Nico will love to face them. He hasn't been the only player who has had to live with rumours because the market will be open until the end of August.

“He's a great player and there may be clubs who might be interested in him, but he's happy with us and we're happy with him. We're counting on Nico for when he returns from the holidays.”