Arsenal are ready to pay the release €58 million release clause of Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams.

It is gathered that Chelsea are also expected to hold further talks with the player’s agents over a potential transfer from Athletic Bilbao this summer.

CaughtOffside was informed by reliable sources with a close understanding of Williams’ situation that there is a long list of suitors pursuing the Spain international this summer.

It is suggested that Arsenal and Chelsea are the ones advancing for the moment.

Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain also all like the player, but this is not anticipated to be a simple or cheap deal to get done, and that’s caused uncertainty among some parties.

It has been widely reported that Chelsea are also unsure about being able to afford Williams.

But CaughtOffside have been told that the Blues have not ended their interest yet, and will hold further discussions to work out if an agreement can be struck.

Williams is currently with the Spanish national team at the European Championship in Germany.

He is expected to be in action for the Spanish today (Monday) against Albania.