Liverpool eye €60m winger as summer transfer plans take shape | OneFootball

Liverpool Plot Ambitious Move for €60m Nico Williams: Summer Overhaul Incoming

As Arne Slot begins to shape Liverpool in his own image, signs point to a seismic shift in the club’s attacking personnel. With Federico Chiesa, Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz all reportedly linked with exits — and Mohamed Salah’s future still up in the air — Liverpool’s forward line could look drastically different by the start of next season.

One name heavily linked with a move to Anfield is Nico Williams. According to a report by TodoFichajes, Liverpool are “determined to sign the winger” and “confident that they can close the deal”. Sources close to the player believe the agreement is “well advanced”, with the Reds prepared to activate his €60 million (£48.75 million) release clause.

Photo: IMAGO

Spain Star on the Rise

Williams, 21, has been turning heads for some time in La Liga. With 29 goals in 159 appearances for Athletic Club, he’s grown into a consistent presence on the left wing. But it’s on the international stage that he’s recently shone brightest.

During Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, Williams struck up a devastating partnership with Lamine Yamal, helping La Roja lift the trophy. He continued that form last week, scoring and assisting in Spain’s UEFA Nations League quarter-final draw with the Netherlands. With five goals in 25 international caps, Williams is fast becoming a fixture in Luis de la Fuente’s side.

Photo IMAGO

Premier League Dream Incoming?

Reports suggest that Williams has long harboured ambitions to play in the Premier League. If Liverpool can secure his signature, they’ll be landing a player with proven pedigree and elite potential.

“Offensively, the Spanish international is a real threat and could be an ideal replacement for Salah or Diaz,” the report states. At just 21, Williams’ ceiling is high, and under Slot’s watchful eye, there’s every reason to believe he could thrive in England.

Photo: IMAGO

Balancing Flair with Work Rate

While Williams’ attacking flair and pace are unquestionable, there are legitimate concerns. Will he adapt to the defensive intensity required by Arne Slot? “There is a concern over whether he has the defensive work rate Slot demands,” notes TodoFichajes.

Still, there’s room for development. Slot is not short on tactical nous and has shown in previous roles his ability to mould young talent into well-rounded contributors. If Williams buys into the philosophy, Liverpool could unearth a gem.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This feels like yet another headline-grabbing rumour timed perfectly for the transfer circus. There’s no denying Nico Williams has potential, but potential alone doesn’t win Premier League titles — and certainly doesn’t replace Mohamed Salah.

Yes, the Spanish winger is quick, creative and clearly has a high ceiling, but €60 million is a steep fee for someone whose productivity is still developing. Fans will rightly ask: is he truly the finished product we need right now?

The Salah situation casts a long shadow. Until that’s resolved, any incoming forward will be seen as either a stop-gap or an unfair successor. Williams may offer sparks, but replacing Salah’s 20+ goal contributions per season is a monumental task. Can he cope with that pressure at 21?

There’s also the cultural shift under Arne Slot. Williams will need to adapt fast — to the language, the tactics, the tempo. He doesn’t yet possess the defensive discipline that Slot’s Feyenoord sides prided themselves on. That should worry fans expecting an instant impact.

In short: exciting? Yes. But proven? Not yet. And with several clubs also circling, Liverpool could find themselves priced out — or left wondering if their resources might be better spent on a more ready-made star.