Arsenal now in contact with representatives of attacker Mikel Arteta really likes

Arsenal are in contact with the representatives of Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams ahead of the summer transfer window, according to German journalist Christian Falk.

However, the Gunners will face competition from Bayern Munich for the Spain international after the Bundesliga club joined the race to recruit him.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta really likes Williams and was willing to sign him during the January transfer window.

However, the financial demands the Gunners needed to meet to make a move happen prevented them from pursuing a deal.

The 22-year-old winger has a release clause of around €60 million. Arsenal could be willing to activate it in the summer, but they will face competition from other European clubs.

Williams ended last season with eight goals and 16 assists and has tallied nine goals and seven assists in 36 appearances this term.

He would be a useful acquisition for Arsenal as they strive to build a squad capable of regularly challenging for silverware.

His ability to play in several attacking roles is a bonus, but interest from other clubs could scupper Arsenal’s hopes of securing his services this summer.