Arsenal learn new Nico Williams release clause after Barcelona transfer falls through

Nico Williams appears to have ended speculations surrounding his future after signing an astonishing new 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao.

The Spain international had appeared destined to join Barcelona and form part of a potentially devastating forward line with his La Roja teammate, Lamine Yamal.

Williams’ proposed move, however, ran into trouble after it emerged that the reigning Spanish champions were struggling to ratify his registration.

Barcelona were also understood to want to pay Williams’ previous release clause of €58million in installments.

The 22-year-old has now committed his future to his boyhood club and any potential suitors will now have to activate a release clause that stands at nearly €100m.

Both Arsenal and Bayern Munich had been heavily linked with the winger who has made 167 appearances in all competitions for Athletic.

Upon signing his new deal, Williams said: ‘When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart. I’m where I want to be, with my people, this is my home. Go Athletic!’

It remains to be seen what sort of receptions he gets from the Basque fanswho erased Williams from a mural featuring him and his brother Inaki, who also plays for the club, amid reports linking him with a move to La Liga champions Barcelona.

The mural was defaced after Barca sporting director Deco said they could target the winger, who scored in last year’s European Championship final against England to guide Spain to a record fourth title.

Williams’ new release clause is likely to put off Arsenal for now, but the Gunners do remain keen to sign a new wide forward.

Real Madrid’s Rodrygo is on their radar and looks increasingly likely to be deemed surplus to requirements.

A deal for Crystal Palace’s versatile Eberechi Eze is also being explored while Arsenal are considering making an offer for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.