Report: Deco's daring move - Barcelona surge past Arsenal in race for Nico Williams

The 22-year-old Spaniard, also a prime target for Arsenal and Bayern Munich, has emerged as a hot prospect in the 2025 summer transfer window, with fierce competition for his signature.

The Catalans' renewed interest comes despite earlier comments from president Joan Laporta, who had said, "He was one of the candidates we were looking at, but we are evaluating other options."

However, Deco's recent meeting with Williams' agent, Felix Tainta, in a Barcelona hotel signals a bold shift in strategy, as reported by Spanish outlet Sport. The summit aimed to gauge the feasibility of a deal for a player who has "several very powerful offers on the table."

Williams, who notched eight goals and 17 assists in 37 La Liga games during the 2024/25 season, has a release clause of approximately 58 million euros. His wage demands, however, pose a challenge for suitors, including Barcelona, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich.

Athletic Bilbao, keen to retain their star, are preparing to offer a new contract to fend off interest, but Williams reportedly prefers to stay in La Liga, giving Barcelona an edge.

Arsenal have long admired Williams, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noting on X that the Gunners consider him "top of their list" for wingers. Despite this, the North Londoners are prioritizing a new striker, with RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP's prolific Viktor Gyokeres leading their shortlist.

Both forwards are valued at around 70 million euros, and Manchester United are also in the race for Gyokeres, intensifying the transfer battle.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, view Williams as a key replacement for departing winger Leroy Sane, with Romano confirming on X that the Bavarians "are willing to make an effort" to secure him. The German champions have already held two meetings with Tainta, underscoring their determination.

Barcelona's new head coach, Hansi Flick, has made signing a left-winger his top priority. While Williams is a prime target, Flick also admires Liverpool's Luis Diaz, described as his "preferred" option, and Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, whose representatives have also met with Deco, per Sport.

Williams' familiarity with Barcelona players from Spain's national team, including Lamine Yamal and Pedri, could ease his integration, and the club have assured him they will resolve any potential registration hurdles.

Athletic Bilbao, aware of the growing interest, sought clarity on Barcelona's intentions during Deco's talks with Tainta. The Basque club remain hopeful of tying Williams to a new deal, but his openness to a move, particularly to Barcelona, has put them on alert.

As the transfer window heats up, Barcelona's audacious move has shaken up the race for Williams, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle with Arsenal and Bayern Munich. With Flick's vision taking shape, the Catalans are poised to make a statement signing, but the winger's decision will hinge on both ambition and finances.