Mikel Merino reacts to Nico Williams' 'completed' message amid Arsenal transfer news
03/26/2025 11:31 AM
Nico Williams remained in high spirits despite growing speculation about his future, with Arsenal reportedly keeping a close eye on the winger.
Mikel Arteta's side are expected to strengthen their attack this summer, having failed to bring in reinforcements during the January transfer window.
Arsenal made an ambitious attempt to sign Ollie Watkins, but Aston Villa prioritised the sale of Jhon Duran instead. Soon after the window closed, injuries to key players like Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz left Arsenal short of attacking options.
With Williams emerging as a potential target for Arsenal to bolster the flanks, excitement is already building among fans about the prospect of his arrival.
Meanwhile, Mikel Merino has impressed in a makeshift striker role, and his latest interaction with Williams online has only added to the speculation.
Arsenal maintain long-standing interest in Nico Williams as Gabriel Martinelli struggles
Williams and Merino were both in action during the international break, playing key roles in Spain's penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands on 23 March. Both players found the net in the first leg, which ended 2-2, before Spain ultimately secured the win.
After the match, the Athletic Club winger took to Instagram with the caption: "Mission completed”.
His post was well received, with likes from several Premier League players, including Dean Huijsen and Pedro Porro. Merino also engaged with the post, further fuelling speculation about Williams' future.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal have maintained a "long-term" interest in the winger. However, they face stiff competition from Barcelona and Chelsea, who are also keeping tabs on the 22-year-old.
With Martinelli struggling for Arsenal this season, patience is wearing thin among some supporters, leading many to look towards potential upgrades—Williams being one of the standout options.
The Spanish international has recorded nine goals and seven assists in 37 appearances this season, building on the 24 goal contributions he registered last term.
| Season statistics for Nico Williams | 2023/24 | 2024/25* |
| Appearances | 37 | 37 |
| Goals | 8 | 9 |
| Assists | 16 | 7 |
Arsenal also considering Ademola Lookman and Bryan Mbeumo as alternative options
While Williams remains a reported target, the Gunners are exploring multiple attacking options. Football Insider revealed Arsenal have been scouting Ademola Lookman, with representatives attending games in Italy to monitor his progress.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are also keeping a close eye on Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo, whose contract is set to expire next summer.
Although a deal for any of these players is still some way off, Arsenal appear determined to finally strengthen their attack in the upcoming transfer window.
The post Mikel Merino reacts to Nico Williams' 'completed' message amid Arsenal transfer news appeared first on Football Insider.
