Nico Williams issues transfer ultimatum to Arsenal, Chelsea & Barcelona | OneFootball

Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has warned his suitors that he will not be drawn into another lengthy transfer saga this summer and has set a date for a final decision on his future, according to a report.

Williams had interest from Europe's elite last summer as the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona and Bayern Munich were all chasing his signature. The story lasted almost the entire transfer window before Williams ultimately confirmed his desire to remain with Athletic for at least one more season.

Most of those suitors still remain keen on Williams and his cut-price release clause. Reported to sit around the £52m mark, the 22-year-old would appear to represent excellent value for money in that regard, although the biggest dilemma for those still chasing his signature - Bayern Munich have dropped out but Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona remain - is the fact he is expected to demand well over £200,000 in weekly wages.

Those wanting more time to make a decision on their pursuit of Williams appear set to be disappointed as, according to SPORT, the winger has warned clubs they have until 15 July to finalise an agreement to sign him.

Williams wants a full pre-season, either with Athletic or a new side, and is reluctant to accept a disjointed summer split up across two clubs.

It is Williams' significant salary demands which will cause problems for those interested. Chelsea's wage model revolves around offering lower up-front salaries with significant bonuses and add-ons, while Barcelona are still battling with La Liga over the current status of their salary cap in the wake of the controversy surrounding Dani Olmo.

Arsenal would appear best-placed to meet Williams' demands but already have an expensive forward line which could soon rise in cost as the Gunners prepare to discuss a new contract with Bukayo Saka, who will undoubtedly be handed a significant wage in any new deal. Contact has also been established with Bayern Munich's Kingsley Coman as an alternative to strengthen on that flank.

Another position on the agenda for Arsenal is central midfield - Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi is the top priority - and a big-money striker, so whether they will have the necessary funds to meet Williams' demands remains to be seen.