Arsenal to battle Real for Williams, Chelsea target ‘new Pique’

Arsenal to challenge Real and Liverpool for Williams

Arsenal will look to fight off Real Madrid and Liverpool to sign Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, according to the Mirror.

Williams, 21, has scored 26 goals and assisted 29 in 136 appearances for the La Liga side, and his form was rewarded with a new contract last year.

The outlet also claims Mikel Arteta’s side may look to offload Thomas Partey, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah in a summer ‘shake-up’.

“Arsenal scouts have been making checks on Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams,” the article states.

“The Gunners have got a winger on their transfer hit-list this summer as they look to strengthen their squad again. They have also been long term admirers of Wolves winger Pedro Neto, who is already proven in the Premier League.

“Spain international Williams, 21, signed a new contract last year so he would not be cheap and Arsenal have not been the only club making checks as Real Madrid, Aston Villa and Liverpool have also been linked with him. Athletic Bilbao have been insistent that they will not sell Williams and the player will also show his loyalty.

“The Gunners have been keen to get back-up for Bukayo Saka and more attacking options to ease the pressure on the England winger.

“Arsenal could be ready for a shake-up this summer with Thomas Partey, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah all possible big-name departures.”

Chelsea target ‘new Gerard Pique’

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Pau Cubarsi is attracting the interest of Chelsea, according to reports.

The 17-year-old, who has made six appearances for Barca so far this season, is said to have a release clause of just £8.5 million.

The Sun reports: “Chelsea are reportedly set to renew their interest in Barcelona wonderkid Pau Cubarsi – who has a bargain release clause to boot.

“Cubarsi, 17, has emerged as the jewel of La Masia this season following his breakthrough into the senior side.

“Barcelona fans reckon he could even be the next Gerard Pique. But the defending champions are now sweating over Cubarsi’s future due to his release clause.

“The centre-back signed a new deal until 2026 last year, giving him a value of just £8.5 million. And Mundo Deportivo claims Chelsea are ready to take advantage by triggering the clause this summer.

“The Blues made an attempt to land Cubarsi last summer before he penned his Barcelona deal.”

Potter on AC Milan’s radar

Former Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter is reportedly on AC Milan’s radar.

Potter was dismissed as Chelsea boss in April 2023, just seven months after he was appointed after overseeing 11 losses in 31 games.

Pioli, who led Milan to their first Serie A title in 11 years back in 2022, is said to be under pressure at the Italian giants.

“Graham Potter has reportedly been lined up for a stunning return to management with Italian giants AC Milan,” an article in The Sun states.

AC Milan reportedly have the former Chelsea and Brighton boss on their shortlist to take over at the end of the season.

“But Potter isn’t the only ex-Blues boss to be on the exclusive ‘shortlist’. Italian Antonio Conte, also 10 months out of work after being sacked by Tottenham last March, is suspected to be top of the list,

“But being linked with such a prestigious club will be a shot in the arm for Potter’s job hunt.

“Now 10 months on from getting the sack from Chelsea, the 48-year-old is still out of work and talkSPORT reports he is keen on a return to the dugout as soon as possible.”

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