Bayern Munich reportedly moved ahead of Arsenal in the race to sign Nico Williams after making the winger their major target for the summer transfer window.

Last month, the German champions were struck with the news that Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz preferred a move to join Premier League winners Liverpool.

BILD reporter Christian Falk stated that Bayern have an interest in both Athletic Club's Williams and PSG's Bradley Barcola.

Williams is said to be earning around £ 6.7 million per year at Athletic Club, but the Spain international is claimed to have indicated he will lower his demands to secure a move to Bayern.

Bayern are reportedly set to press ahead with their interest in Williams, with chiefs prepared to trigger his € 60 million (£51m) release clause.

Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in Williams should a deal prove financially viable.

The 22-year-old winger has played 45 times in all competitions for Athletic Club last season, scoring 11 goals and delivering seven assists.

Williams had played a crucial part in Spain’s European Championships triumph last time, starting six of their seven matches in Germany.

The winger scored Spain’s opening goal in the 2- 1 final win over England in Berlin.

Williams has so far made 28 appearances for the national squad and has scored six goals.

Bayern Munich would need to complete a deal today for Williams to be eligible to feature at the Club World Cup, making a move after the special summer transfer window look a more likely prospect.