Arsenal-linked attacker Nico Williams is reportedly expected to hold contract talks with Athletic Bilbao.
Barcelona were interested in signing Williams last summer after he played an important role in Spain's triumph at Euro 2024.
However, concerns about Barcelona's ability to register players contributed to Williams' decision to stay put for the 2024-25 campaign.
The winger is currently focused on helping Athletic achieve Champions League qualification as well as their goal of going all the way in the Europa League, with Los Leones dreaming of playing in a European final at their home stadium of San Mames.
While he remains an important player for Athletic, there is considerable doubt as to whether he will still be with the Basque club for the start of next season.
Arsenal are believed to be leading the race for Williams's signature after it was recently reported that the club's new sporting director, Andrea Berta, has held talks with the player's agent.
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Athletic to hold Williams contract talks
According to The Mirror, Athletic are not willing to let Williams depart without putting up a fight to retain his services.
Athletic president Jon Uriarte is planning to make an effort to open talks with Williams over signing a new deal.
However, the report claims that there are no active discussions taking place between the two parties over a contract extension.
The Athletic academy product signed his current deal in December 2023, which is set to run until the end of the 2026-27 season.
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Arsenal face two more stumbling blocks
While potential contract talks could impact Arsenal's pursuit, there are believed to be two more factors that could affect their chances of landing Williams.
The player is said to have a €58m (£48.5m) release clause in his contract, but that could rise to €60m (£51m) when taxes are taken into account.
Furthermore, the clause must also be paid in full rather than in instalments, which could prove to be a stumbling block for Mikel Arteta's side.
There is a belief that the player's wage demands could also be an issue, with the attacker said to be earning around £200,000 a week at Athletic.
