Arsenal have five Nico Williams alternatives as Real Madrid hijack interest

could be forced to abandon their interest in Nico Williams after Real Madrid entered the race to land the Athletic Bilbao star. Top clubs are said to have monitored the Spain international over the past few years, but may be trumped by Xabi Alonso, who reportedly plans to sign the winger instead.

The Gunners are expected to strengthen their forward line in the summer and could sign a new winger. But having famously avoided high-profile bidding wars in the past, they may now move on from Williams. Express Sport looks at some of their other options.

Ademola Lookman

Lookman's career has soared since he left Premier League football behind to join Atalanta in 2022. A memorable hat-trick in last year's Europa League final was just one of many huge contributions for the Italian outfit.

He has scored 20 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions this season and, at 27, looks ready to earn a move to one of Europe's top clubs. Arsenal should take a punt on the Nigeria international.

Rafael Leao

Leao would arrive with some onlookers harbouring concerns that he does not always perform well in the biggest games. But the AC Milan star could take his game to the next level under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.

He possesses a similar profile to Williams, a dribbly winger whose productivity in the final third has the capacity to improve. Now 25, Leao is at a stage in his career where he can go to Arsenal and make a big impact immediately, which may not have been the case for Williams.

Jamie Gittens

A slightly rawer alternative to those listed above is Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens. Linked with Arsenal and Chelsea in January, the England youth international's form has dipped in the second half of the season. That is potentially the result of increasing speculation around his future.

Gittens might not make the immediate impact Arteta would ideally want from a new winger, but the 20-year-old has the potential to shine in the years to come. His eye for goal, with 12 in all competitions, has impressed scouts from across Europe.

Anthony Gordon

Just like when they signed Declan Rice in 2023, Arsenal should just go and sign the best possible option. Gordon would surely be Arteta's dream addition for the left-wing position - homegrown, better than what Arsenal already have, and several years of top-quality Premier League performances.

It is, of course, unlikely and Newcastle do not need to sell the England international - their PSR situation is better than 12 months ago and they could have Champions League football next season. However, they would surely be tempted to an offer close to £100m, which would help them further improve Eddie Howe's squad.

Rodrygo

If Real Madrid sign Williams, that would surely leave Rodrygo surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu. The Brazilian has been loosely linked with Arsenal in the past and would garner a higher squad status in north London than he does in the Spanish capital.