Athletic Club has officially announced the acquisition of Alvaro Djalo, a move that may signal the potential departure of Nico Williams, a target for Arsenal, from the club.
Despite the summer transfer window still being several months away, significant business transactions are already underway.
La Liga outfit Athletic Club, currently occupying fifth place in the league standings, has acted swiftly to secure the services of promising talent Alvaro Djalo from Braga.
Hailing from Madrid but raised in Bilbao, Djalo meets the eligibility criteria to represent Athletic due to their strict adherence to an all-Basque transfer policy.
Djalo has demonstrated exceptional performance for Braga throughout the current season, amassing 14 goals and three assists across all competitions.
As a dynamic and rapid winger, Djalo presents an enticing prospect and could potentially fill the void left by Nico Williams in Bilbao.
Arsenal and Tottenham given Nico Williams encouragement
According to information obtained by HITC Football, it is understood that Athletic’s player Williams remains a coveted figure. Despite signing a new contract with Athletic in December, it is our understanding that the presence of a release clause in the agreement suggests that his departure is still probable.
Notably, clubs such as Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur have shown keen interest in securing Williams’ services. Furthermore, the potential transfer of Djalo is believed to potentially facilitate Williams’ exit.
Williams, who happens to be the brother of Athletic teammate Inaki Williams, has garnered significant attention owing to his impressive performance this season, amassing six goals and 11 assists across all competitions. Xavi, the manager of Barcelona, has praised him as ‘exceptional’, highlighting his immense potential. Liverpool, in particular, might be eyeing him as a successor to Mohamed Salah on the right flank.
Arsenal could be seeking to bolster their options with competition for Bukayo Saka, while Tottenham, under the management of Ange Postecoglou, might find Williams’ pace appealing.
Given the existence of the release clause in Williams’ contract, Athletic is unlikely to impede his departure. However, the acquisition of Djalo suggests that the club is preparing for Williams’ potential exit.
Having secured their next wing star in Djalo, Athletic’s move signifies the commencement of what could be an intense battle for Williams’ signature as the summer transfer window approaches.