In what promises to be a significant boost for Liverpool, Athletic Bilbao’s winger Nico Williams is reportedly prepared to join the Reds, as the Premier League side intensifies their pursuit of fresh attacking options. According to reports from Spain, Williams has shown keen interest in making the switch to Anfield, a move that could see him finally departing Athletic Bilbao, where he has been a prominent figure since his youth.
The timing of Liverpool’s interest comes as the club seeks to reinforce their attacking line following a challenging spell in recent weeks. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, the Reds have found form, triumphing over Inter Milan in the Champions League and securing back-to-back Premier League victories against Brighton and Tottenham. However, lingering issues have persisted, not least the dissatisfaction of star forward Mohamed Salah, who expressed frustration after a string of bench appearances.
Salah’s recent grievances culminated in him claiming he’d been “thrown under the bus” by Liverpool and asserting a breakdown in relations with Slot. Despite these tensions, the Reds’ hierarchy has opted to reintegrate the Egyptian into the squad following discussions, further aided by the unfortunate injury to Alexander Isak, who sustained a broken leg in a recent match against Tottenham.
With Salah seemingly staying put for now, Liverpool remains in the market for an additional attacker. Reports suggest that despite earlier interest in versatile forward Antoine Semenyo, whose current inclination is towards Manchester City, Liverpool have turned their attention to Williams. Boasting an impressive skill set, he’s seen by the club as an ideal candidate to enhance their left-wing capabilities.
Williams, who last summer opted to renew his commitment to Bilbao despite interest from other La Liga clubs and Premier League teams, now appears ready for a fresh challenge. His release clause has increased significantly to €95m, closing the door on a potential move to Barcelona, and pivoting Liverpool as the frontrunner for his signature.
With 2026 potentially marking the year of his departure from Athletic Bilbao – a club that has molded him since childhood – Williams might soon don the famous Liverpool shirt. His agent is reportedly enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Reds, though final confirmations are still pending.
Elsewhere, football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has weighed in, suggesting that Liverpool could indeed be active during the January transfer window, targeting one or possibly two players, in light of Isak’s extended injury layoff. Romano’s insights on his YouTube channel underline the tactical recalibrations Liverpool might undertake, with Williams perhaps being the perfect addition to their attacking ensemble.
Keep an eye on Liverpool this January, as they strategise their bid for both Premier League supremacy and continued European exploits.