Nico Williams has been a long term transfer target for Arsenal, but they could turn to an alternative.(Image: Ahmad Mora - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

Nico Williams Arsenal transfer alternative emerges amid Premier League battle

by · football.london

Arsenal are one of six Premier League clubs to be linked with an interest in Deportivo de La Coruna forward Yeremay Hernandez - as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options in the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old has caught the eye for the Spanish second division this season; in his 17 league appearances, he has scored seven times and provided a further three assists. Reports in Spain from La Opinion A Coruna (via SportWitness) claim that Arsenal scouts have been among those in attendance at games to keep an eye on the forward. Hernandez has a €20 million (£16.8m) release clause in his contract with the club, said to not be willing to take less than that.

Alongside Arsenal, Bournemouth, Brentford, Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest are all reported to be ‘keeping tabs’ on the player. Italian side Como, managed by former Arsenal man Cesc Fabregas, are also said to be interested.

For Arsenal, the winger, who is able to play on either side or more centrally in a number 10 role, could be seen as a cheaper alternative to Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. The Gunners have been long-term admirers of the Spanish international, who has a release clause of around £50 million.

However, Williams’ wage demands could be a problem to any potential transfer. There would also be doubts over if the player would want to leave Athletic Club in midseason with the club currently fourth in La Liga and in Europa League competition.

There could be a similar problem with Hernandez. The report adds that the player has made it clear he is happy at Deportivo and is keen to reward their faith in him; that could therefore put some doubt over any January move, despite the step up a move to Arsenal would represent.

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