In a stunning development, Liverpool are reportedly gearing up to submit a €75m plus add-ons offer for Athletic Bilbao’s star winger, Nico Williams, in a bid to finalize their dream attacking lineup. According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Reds have set their sights on the 23-year-old Spain international to join forces with Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and Alexander Isak, creating what could be one of the most formidable front lines in world football.
Liverpool’s Ambitious Summer and Beyond
Liverpool’s summer transfer window was nothing short of spectacular, with the club splashing out £320m to secure the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak. These blockbuster moves have already transformed Arne Slot’s squad, with Wirtz anchoring the No. 10 role, Isak leading the line as the primary striker, and Salah remaining an untouchable force on the right wing. Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo has held down the left-wing spot, though Hugo Ekitike has also been tested in that position.
Despite this wealth of attacking talent, Fichajes claims Liverpool are not done yet. The Reds are reportedly “preparing” a €75m bid, supplemented by performance-related add-ons, to prise Nico Williams away from Athletic Bilbao. The young Spaniard is seen as the final piece of the puzzle to complete a “dream” front four that could dominate European football for years to come.
Why Nico Williams?
Nico Williams has long been on Liverpool’s radar, with the club reportedly tracking the winger for some time. The 23-year-old’s electrifying performances for Athletic Bilbao and his standout displays for Spain at Euro 2024 have only heightened interest in his services. His pace, dribbling ability, and knack for delivering in big moments make him an ideal fit for Slot’s high-octane system.
However, time is of the essence. Williams’ current contract with Athletic Bilbao includes a release clause of approximately €90m, but Liverpool are keen to negotiate a lower fee of €75m plus add-ons. The Reds are wary that another stellar performance from Williams at next summer’s World Cup in North America could see his valuation skyrocket, potentially pricing them out of a deal. By acting swiftly, Liverpool hope to secure the winger before his stock rises even further.
Is There Truth to the Rumors?
While Fichajes is not always regarded as the most reliable source for transfer news, there may be some substance to their claims. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano previously revealed that Liverpool were open to signing a left winger late in the summer window, specifically naming PSG’s Bradley Barcola as a target if their move for Isak had fallen through. This suggests the Reds were actively seeking an upgrade on Gakpo, lending credence to the idea that they could now be targeting Williams.
One complicating factor is Williams’ availability. After a potential move to Barcelona collapsed in the latter stages of the summer window, the winger was deemed untouchable. However, Fichajes reports that Athletic Bilbao may be open to cashing in on Williams in 2026, particularly due to minor concerns over his injury record. The 23-year-old has already missed time this season with a groin issue, which could make the LaLiga club more amenable to a deal if the right offer arrives.
Liverpool’s ‘Dream’ Front Line
If Liverpool can pull off this audacious move, the prospect of Nico Williams joining Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and Alexander Isak in attack is mouthwatering. Salah, despite a slow start to the season, remains one of the world’s premier wingers. Wirtz, a generational talent, has already begun to shine in the No. 10 role, while Isak’s clinical finishing has solidified his place as Liverpool’s go-to striker. Adding Williams’ flair and dynamism on the left wing could elevate Liverpool’s attack to unprecedented heights.
Debunking Other Liverpool Rumors
In other Liverpool-related news, some outlandish claims have surfaced recently. Former player Joleon Lescott bizarrely suggested that Liverpool regret their purchase of Florian Wirtz and would accept a refund if offered. Video evidence and Wirtz’s performances clearly debunk this claim as nonsense. Similarly, Dutch legend Marco van Basten made a ludicrous statement about Virgil van Dijk that has left fans baffled. Meanwhile, Real Madrid appear to have shifted their focus away from Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and towards one of the Reds’ own centre-back targets.
