Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams in the final stages of the summer transfer window.

The Spain star has been heavily linked with Barcelona during the current market, but it is understood that he has rejected the chance to make the move to Hansi Flick's team.

While a late move to Barcelona has not been completely ruled out, it is believed to be highly unlikely that Williams will join the Catalan team in the final stages of the market.

According to The Independent, Arsenal are keeping a close eye on the situation, with Williams viewed as the Premier League club's leading attacking target in the last week of the window.

However, the report claims that the Gunners accept that it will be difficult to complete a deal for a player who is said to be keen to remain in Spain.

Arsenal 'exploring' potential late Williams move

Arsenal are allegedly determined to add a forward to their squad before the market closes, and Williams is viewed as a genuine target due to the £48m release clause in his contract.

Barcelona, though, are believed to have made it clear that they are willing to meet the buy-out fee this summer, only for Williams to decide to remain with Athletic.

The 22-year-old is currently preparing to face Barcelona in Saturday's La Liga affair, and he will be bidding to build on what was an impressive 2023-24 campaign and European Championship.

Williams scored eight goals and registered 19 assists in 37 appearances for Athletic last season, before playing a leading role in Spain winning Euro 2024, scoring twice and providing one assist in six appearances at the competition.

Is a late switch to Arsenal realistic?

While Williams is said to be Arsenal's 'preferred target', it is very difficult to imagine the Gunners being able to sign him in the closing stages of the market.

Athletic have already resisted the attentions of Barcelona, with the attacker thought to be keen to spend one more season at San Mames to play European football.

A move to Barcelona, potentially next summer, is still thought to be in his plans, and it is believed that he sees the majority of his career being played in Spain.

Arsenal are said to want a 'Leandro Trossard-style purchase', and there will certainly be other names on their shortlist other than Williams.

Williams made the breakthrough into the Athletic first team in 2021, and he has represented the Basque side on 123 occasions, scoring 20 goals and registering 26 assists in the process.