Nico Williams Responds to Liverpool Transfer Talk: “I’m Honored, But Focused on Athletic”

Nico Williams, one of the brightest young stars in European football, has finally broken his silence on the swirling rumors linking him with a move to Liverpool. Speaking in a candid interview with Spanish media, the 22-year-old winger made it clear that while he is flattered by the attention, his heart and focus remain firmly with Athletic Club—for now.

Liverpool have been eyeing reinforcements to their attack under new manager Arne Slot, and Nico has emerged as a top candidate. The Basque-born talent has dazzled La Liga with his electric pace, flair, and maturity on the pitch, drawing attention from Premier League scouts for over a year.

When asked directly about Liverpool’s interest, Nico offered a humble and balanced response.

“I’m honored when a club like Liverpool shows interest in me,” he said. “It means a lot. It shows that my efforts here at Athletic are being recognized on an international level.”

His words struck a tone that was both grateful and grounded. While he didn’t confirm any official contact between the clubs, he acknowledged the prestige of being linked with such a historic institution.

Nico’s talent is no secret. Over the past two seasons, he has evolved from a promising academy graduate into one of La Liga’s most consistent attacking threats. With blistering pace, an eye for a pass, and a growing tactical intelligence, he’s considered by many to be the future of Spanish football.

Talk of a move to England has been persistent, with sources close to Anfield suggesting Liverpool see him as a potential long-term replacement for Luis Díaz. However, Nico is not rushing any decisions.

“Right now, I have a contract with Athletic Bilbao until 2027,” he said. “I feel deeply committed to this club and its supporters. We’ve built something special here.”

While the Premier League remains a dream for many young players, Nico emphasized that his current situation in Spain still provides a platform for growth and development.

“Yes, the Premier League is one of the best in the world,” he added. “Every young player dreams of testing themselves at that level. But for me, it’s also about timing and readiness.”

Perhaps most refreshing was Nico’s take on modern football’s obsession with money and prestige. He spoke openly about the need for the right fit, not just the right price.

“For me, it’s not just about the salary or the brand,” he stated. “It’s about the sporting project. I want to be part of something that helps me grow—not only as a footballer but as a person.”

This philosophy aligns strongly with Liverpool’s recruitment model under Jürgen Klopp and now Arne Slot. The club looks for players who fit a specific character profile: humble, hardworking, and driven by team success.

Nico also addressed another topic that’s frequently raised in the Spanish media—his relationship with his older brother, Iñaki Williams. Iñaki is a club legend at Athletic and has played a significant role in mentoring Nico through the early stages of his career.

“Iñaki has been a huge influence on me,” Nico admitted. “But we’re different. Different players, different mindsets. I want to carve out my own legacy.”

The desire to be seen on his own terms—rather than as Iñaki’s younger sibling—speaks volumes about Nico’s mentality. It’s the kind of attitude that Premier League clubs, especially Liverpool, value highly.

From Liverpool’s perspective, Nico’s statements offer both encouragement and a challenge. On one hand, the winger is clearly aware of and appreciative of their interest. On the other, they will have to present a compelling case to lure him away from Bilbao.

Arne Slot’s system demands wide players who are not just fast and technical, but tactically astute and willing to press. Nico fits that profile. His ability to play on either wing and his discipline in defensive transitions would make him a seamless fit at Anfield.

But any potential deal won’t be easy. Athletic Bilbao is known for its fierce loyalty to Basque players and its reluctance to sell unless release clauses are met. Nico’s contract reportedly includes a clause in the region of €60 million, and the club isn’t under pressure to sell.

What may work in Liverpool’s favor, however, is the player’s openness to a new challenge—when the timing is right. The club would need to build a sporting project that convinces Nico he will be a key figure in their future.

So far, the signs are promising. Liverpool is entering a period of tactical and squad evolution under Slot, and players like Nico Williams could be central to that transformation. With the likes of Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, and Luis Díaz all nearing their peak years, Liverpool is thinking ahead.

As the summer transfer window heats up, the ball is now in Liverpool’s court. Nico Williams has shown respect, maturity, and ambition—all qualities that suggest he’s destined for the very top of the game.

But for now, he remains focused on Athletic Club and what he describes as a “special” journey with the Basque giants.

“I have goals here. I want to help this team achieve great things. If something comes in the future, it will come. But today, I’m proud to wear this jersey.”

Only time will tell if that jersey eventually turns red.