Liverpool have the chance to sign La Liga forward for £77m | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfers: Nico Williams Could be a Replacement for Mohamed Salah

Liverpool’s summer planning is expected to place renewed focus on wide attacking areas, with Nico Williams an intriguing name for Anfield decision makers to consider.

Arne Slot’s side have already shown they can compete at the highest level, winning the Premier League in his first season in 2024/25. Yet this campaign has underlined a familiar issue. Liverpool need more pace, direct running and one versus one threat from wide positions, particularly as Mohamed Salah continues to carry significant attacking responsibility.

Michael Olise has been linked with Liverpool, although prising him away from Bayern Munich appears highly unlikely. That reality makes alternatives essential, and Williams remains one of the most obvious, if strangely under discussed, options on the market.

Nico Williams Profile Fits Liverpool’s Needs

Williams, still only 23, built a strong reputation through his performances for Athletic Bilbao and Spain. His explosive displays at Euro 2024 elevated him into the elite conversation, with Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all credited with interest at different stages.

A move did not happen. Instead, Williams committed his future to Athletic with a long term contract, although Estadio Deportivo continue to suggest his deal contains a release clause worth around £77m.

Photo: IMAGO

That figure is substantial, especially after a season in which his output has dipped. Williams has scored only four goals and is currently without a goal in nine matches. Those numbers explain why the transfer noise has quietened.

For Liverpool, however, recruitment cannot be based purely on a short scoring run. Williams offers acceleration, width, ball carrying and a willingness to attack defenders. Those qualities are exactly what Slot’s team have lacked too often.

Mohamed Salah Succession Planning Matters

Mohamed Salah remains central to Liverpool’s attack, both as a goal scorer and creator. Any move for Nico Williams would not simply be about replacing Salah, it would be about reducing the burden on him while adding another elite transition threat.

Liverpool have long been at their best when their wide forwards stretch opponents and create space between full backs and centre backs. Williams has the tools to do that, particularly from the left, while also giving Slot flexibility across the front line.

That matters in a market where proven young attackers are increasingly expensive. If Liverpool are prepared to spend heavily on potential, Williams deserves to be in the same discussion as names such as Bradley Barcola and Yan Diomande.

£77m Gamble Could Become Opportunity

There is risk attached to Williams. His release clause is high, his recent numbers are modest and Athletic Bilbao are rarely easy sellers. Yet that same uncertainty could benefit Liverpool.

Twelve months ago, the queue for Williams appeared long. Now, with Barcelona’s interest seemingly less advanced and Premier League rivals looking elsewhere, there may be room for Liverpool to act decisively.

The winger market will be crowded this summer. Liverpool need clarity, speed and conviction. Nico Williams may not be the loudest name in the conversation right now, but he remains one of the most compelling.

For a side still shaped around Mohamed Salah’s brilliance, adding Williams would give Slot another weapon and Liverpool another route back to attacking unpredictability.