Report: Athletic Bilbao Star on Liverpool’s Radar As Salah’s Successor | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Nico Williams Chase: Renewed Hopes Amid Transfer Drama

Liverpool fans were left buzzing after a week that saw their team overcome Premier League and European champions with a combined 4-0 scoreline. But the excitement off the pitch was just as intense, as reports surfaced about potential transfer activity and contract updates. While Mohamed Salah’s one-year extension and Martin Zubimendi’s availability made headlines, it’s Nico Williams who has emerged as a tantalising prospect for Liverpool’s future.

Photo: IMAGO

Nico Williams: Rising Star with an Admirable Track Record

According to The Athletic, Liverpool has maintained a “long-standing admiration” for Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. The 22-year-old winger had an impressive 2023/24 season, contributing five goals and 11 assists in 31 appearances as Bilbao clinched the Copa del Rey title. His international exploits at Euro 2024 further elevated his reputation, where he shone as Spain triumphed, even claiming the Player of the Match award in the final against England.

Photo: IMAGO

However, his form has dipped slightly this season, with just two goals and one assist in 18 appearances across all competitions. Despite this, his potential remains undeniable, and his relatively low release clause of €55 million (£46 million) makes him an enticing option for Europe’s elite clubs.

A Premier League Move on the Horizon?

Transfer expert David Ornstein has revealed that Liverpool is among the clubs monitoring Williams closely. Last summer, Williams was linked with a Premier League move but reportedly prioritised a dream transfer to Barcelona. Ornstein elaborated:

“Last summer, there was major interest from the Premier League but Nico Williams’ heart was set on joining Barcelona. He waited for them, and when that did not materialise, he decided to remain at Athletic Club.”

With Barcelona no longer in the frame, thanks to the rise of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, Williams appears more open to a move abroad, possibly to the Premier League. Liverpool, alongside Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich, are said to be contenders.

Timing the Move: January or Summer?

Williams’ contract with Bilbao runs until 2027, and while the release clause is affordable by Premier League standards, Ornstein noted that the timing could be a critical factor. He suggested that Williams would prefer a summer move but left room for speculation:

“He would prefer not to move in the winter market but you never know. Either way, the likes of Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur are among those who hold a long-standing admiration.”

For Liverpool, signing Williams in January could provide a boost as they continue to challenge on multiple fronts under Arne Slot’s dynamic management.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans are bound to be excited by the prospect of adding a talent like Nico Williams to their squad. The 22-year-old’s flair, pace, and creativity could provide the spark that occasionally seems missing in the team’s attacking transitions. With Salah entering the final stages of his career at Anfield, securing a young, versatile winger like Williams could be a step towards building the next generation of Liverpool’s frontline.

However, scepticism lingers regarding the timing of such a move. A January signing could disrupt Williams’ rhythm, given his stated preference for a summer switch. The club must also weigh the financial and tactical implications, particularly as other positions might require reinforcements.

Nonetheless, the relatively low release clause makes this an opportunity Liverpool cannot afford to ignore. The club has a history of developing wingers into world-class stars, and under Arne Slot’s leadership, Williams could thrive.

Fans will be eagerly watching January’s developments, hoping for a decisive move that reaffirms Liverpool’s ambitions in the Premier League and Europe.