Nico Williams sends Arsenal transfer reminder amid clear one-word message as announcement made

Nico Williams returned to action for Athletic Club over the weekend and showed glimpses of why Arsenal are interested in a summer transfer.

Injury has resulted in the Spaniard missing the five games after their Europa League semi-final first leg defeat against Manchester United. Minus disappointment on the European stage,

Several La Liga victories saw them confirm a spot in next season's Champions League before the final day clash at home to Barcelona.

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With pressure off, Williams returned to the starting XI on Sunday and played 80 minutes of their 3-0 defeat to the Spanish champions. Despite that, the 22-year-old was very impressive off the left with two shots taken and several chances created.

, Arsenal could face some competition for his signature if he is the winger they decide to pursue.

Following their final game of the season, Athletic head coach Ernesto Valverde offered a verdict on his future. “Will he continue? I think so,” he said. “We assume he will, and we want him to. You know how it is—when the season ends, the rumours start flying.

“But we’re very happy with him, and I think he’s happy with us too. Hopefully, next season will be a great one for him.”

With a seat at Europe's top table secured, it is no surprise that confidence is high they will be able to keep him at Athletic for at least another season.

A number of Athletic stars have since sent messages to the veteran defender and Williams reposted his tribute on his story with a red heart emoji and the caption "eterno", which translates to "eternal" in English.

Though the domestic season has finished, more football is on the way with the Club World Cup set to take place over June and July.

Some other players will be representing their countries with the Nations League semi-finals involving Germany, France, Portugal and Spain. Williams, who reposted the announcement to his own social media, has been called up for the latter alongside Athletic duo Dani Vivian and Unai Simon.

Williams' involvement in those games during the early days of June likely rules out a move before the Club World Cup closes the first trading period over the summer.