Nico Williams causes Arsenal transfer domino

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 22 Jun 2025 09:33 CDT
• 4 min read

News

Bayern Munich are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli as an alternative to Nico Williams this summer.

Vincent Kompany’s side are determined to finalise a deal for a new left winger before the start of the 2025-26 campaign, following the departure of Leroy Sane to Galatasaray on a free transfer, but Williams is close to joining Barcelona.

Current ETV

Gabriel Martinelli

F, M (L)

Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli

F, M (L)

Arsenal

€63.7M

ETV Range

€57.4M - €70.1M

View full profile

The Spain international has emerged as Bayern’s top target in recent weeks, however he has now agreed personal terms with Barcelona and the Blaugrana are expected to trigger the €58 million release clause included in his current Athletic Club contract.

As a result, Bayern will need to pursue an alternative option and they have already discussed a possible move for the aforementioned Martinelli, according to BILD.

The 24-year-old, whose current deal at Arsenal runs until 2027 has been a regular under Mikel Arteta over the past few seasons and he registered 16 goal contributions in 51 appearances across all competitions last campaign.

If Williams joins Barcelona and Bayern decide to seriously chase a summer move for Martinelli, it could force Arsenal to intensify their pursuit of Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo, who continues to be linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium.

Bayern Munich eye Liverpool star Luis Diaz

In addition to Martinelli, Bayern are also tracking Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, as per BILD.

The Colombia international has been heavily linked with an Anfield exit in recent weeks, amid interest from Barcelona, and Bayern have now identified him as a possible target ahead of the new campaign.

Diaz, who scored 17 goals and provided eight assists in 50 appearances across all competitions last season, has two years remaining on his current Liverpool contract, and multiple reports indicate that he is unlikely to sign a new deal with Arne Slot’s side.

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