Arsenal were one of several clubs reported to be interested in the 23-year-old throughout the summer transfer window.
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Williams looked set to join Barcelona but ultimately turned the La Liga champions down over fears they wouldn’t be able to register him, signing a 10-year deal with Athletic.
When asked about Arsenal’s pursuit of Williams ahead of their Champions League meeting, Arteta kept his cards close to his chest.
He told reporters: “I can't say anything about that. All I can say is that Nico is a fantastic player, and they enjoy him every week here and with the national team. I can't say much more.”