Liverpool “looked into” Nico Williams transfer – Arsenal want him NOW

Liverpool’s interest in Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams has resurfaced, with reports indicating that the Merseyside club explored the feasibility of signing the Spanish international last summer. Although they eventually landed Federico Chiesa in a high-profile deal, Nico Williams remains a player of interest for Liverpool, especially given his growing reputation in European football.

Liverpool’s relatively quiet summer transfer window masked an active scouting process. Under the guidance of new sporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot, the Reds evaluated several players to strengthen their squad. Among those targets, Nico Williams stood out as a potential addition, with his versatility and youth making him an attractive prospect.

Reliable journalist David Ornstein revealed that Liverpool had “looked into the viability of a deal” for Williams. However, the move didn’t materialize, partly due to his release clause, which reportedly sits at £50 million, a figure subject to inflation adjustments. Athletic Bilbao’s strict “Basque-only” recruitment policy further complicates the possibility of losing their prized winger, as replacements would be difficult to find.

Despite Liverpool’s past interest, other Premier League giants, such as Chelsea and Arsenal, have also set their sights on Williams. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen on securing the winger’s services during the current transfer window. Yet, as Ornstein notes, the financial complexities of the deal make it unlikely for the Gunners to finalize a move this January.

Athletic Bilbao values Williams highly and remains reluctant to part ways with him mid-season. This is not just due to his skillset but also because of the unique cultural identity of the club, which prioritizes Basque heritage in their player recruitment. This policy has made Williams indispensable to their ambitions.

Nico Williams, 22, has already established himself as one of La Liga’s most exciting talents. Unlike his older brother and teammate, Iñaki Williams, Nico offers a different dynamic with his playing style. Primarily a right-footed player, he operates predominantly on the left wing, though his versatility allows him to excel on the right as well.

Williams’ development at Athletic Club has been remarkable. Born in Pamplona, he rose through the club’s academy ranks before making his senior debut at 18 under the guidance of then-coach Marcelino. Since then, his ability to take on defenders and create goal-scoring opportunities has made him a standout player.

Last season, Williams recorded eight goals in 37 appearances, a respectable tally for a young winger. However, his true value lies in his creativity. He registered an impressive 19 assists during the 2023/24 campaign, and this season, he has already contributed five assists alongside two goals in 24 matches.

While his goal-scoring numbers may not yet rival those of Europe’s elite wingers, Williams’ potential for improvement is undeniable. His technical ability, combined with his work rate and tactical flexibility, makes him a valuable asset for any top team.

Liverpool’s current squad already boasts significant depth on the wings, particularly on the left. This raises questions about where Williams would fit into Arne Slot’s plans. Unless the Reds view him as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah—a notion complicated by Williams’ stronger right foot—it remains unclear whether a move for the Spaniard is imminent.

However, Williams’ ability to operate on both flanks could provide Liverpool with tactical flexibility. In Slot’s system, which demands high pressing and positional interchangeability, Williams could thrive as both a starter and a rotation option, ensuring consistency in performance across a grueling season.

For now, Athletic Bilbao remains confident of retaining their star player, especially after he signed a contract extension in December 2023, tying him to the club until 2027. This agreement underscores the club’s commitment to keeping their homegrown talent, even amidst growing interest from Europe’s elite.

Arsenal’s interest in Williams complicates Liverpool’s pursuit. Arteta’s desire to add dynamic options to his squad has placed the Spaniard firmly on the Gunners’ radar. Yet, with financial constraints and Athletic’s reluctance to sell, a transfer appears challenging for all parties involved.

While Nico Williams continues to develop in La Liga, Liverpool may reassess their approach in the summer. By then, circumstances might align more favorably, allowing the Reds to revisit a move for the talented winger. Until then, Williams remains a key player for Athletic Bilbao, embodying the club’s proud Basque identity while tantalizing Europe’s top clubs with his undeniable potential.