Arsenal lock horns with Barca over young Nico

Arsenal are on the verge of losing another trophy race in the Premier League, as Liverpool will almost certainly be crowned champions, while Mikel Arteta's crew will probably have to settle for the second place for the third time in a row.

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According to many, the Gunners' crucial problem was the lack of attacking firepower, especially since almost every London side's forward has been sidelined at some point during the current season. Gabriel Martinelli has been out for a month, Bukayo Saka has just recently returned after missing three months, while Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are still crossed out for injuries.

Considering the situation, the club's new sporting director, Andrea Berta, has allegedly already got to work and eyed the first potential addition for the June Transfer Window - Athletic Bilbao's gem, Nico Williams!

The 22-year-old Spaniard has long been Barcelona's target, as the Catalans wanted to pair him up with Lamine Yamal with whom Williams has perfectly functioned at the national team, both on and off the pitch. However, Blaugrana's primary problem are the finances. The case of Dani Olmo and the major issue with his registration have been a huge warning and a red flag for every player who'd like to join Barca.

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Arsenal's crucial edge is their financial ability to fulfil all Williams and Bilbao's wishes, including €60 million for compensation and an annual wage of €15 million, which would place the youngster among the highest-paid Gunners alongside Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Bukayo Saka.

Yet, even though Berta had reportedly already met and spoken to Williams' representatives, he is not Arteta's primary wish. The Spanish strategist desperately needs a defensive midfielder and a genuine striker, while Nico's eventual arrival would just be a cherry on top.

PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 31

Saturday

14:30: (5.20) Everton (3.60) Arsenal (1.80)

17:00: (2.40) Crystal Palace (3.40) Brighton (2.95)

17:00: (2.80) Ipswich (3.25) Wolverhampton (2.60)

17:00: (3.20) West Ham (3.50) Bournemouth (2.35)

19:30: (2.05) Aston Villa (3.60) Nott.Forest (3.90)

Sunday

16:00: (3.40) Brentford (3.60) Chelsea (2.20)

16:00: (4.20) Fulham (3.80) Liverpool (1.90)

16:00: (1.40) Tottenham (4.80) Southampton (7.75)

18:30: (3.45) Man.Utd. (3.50) Man.City (2.20)

Monday

22:00: (6.50) Leicester (4.30) Newcastle (1.50)

***odds are subject to change***