Latest Liverpool transfer news and gossip with an update on the future of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams
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Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao has been linked with Liverpool
Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao has been linked with Liverpool
(Image: Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images)
Liverpool have reportedly been given hope in the race to sign Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. The Reds were heavily linked with a move for the Spain international during the summer transfer window after he starred for Spain on their way to winning Euro 2024.
Williams scored the opening goal against England in the final in Berlin back in July and was named in the team of the tournament by UEFA. The performances by the 21-year-old led to him being tipped to leave Bilbao in favour of a new challenge.
One club linked with signing Williams was Liverpool, but they were not alone. Barcelona were also credited with an interest in signing the winger, as they searched for a new left-sided forward that also led to links with Anfield star Luis Diaz.
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According to The Athletic, Liverpool have a "long-standing admiration" for Williams ahead of the January transfer window. And the report has given the Reds fresh hope that they may be able to sign the Bilbao star.
It has been reported that Barcelona may no longer have an interest in signing Williams due to the form of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha this season. Despite this change in stance from the La Liga club, the report claims that Williams is increasingly likely to move to the Premier League if he was to leave Bilbao.
Liverpool will apparently face competition from Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Bayern Munich for Williams' signature. It has been reported that Williams has a €55million (£45.6million) release clause in his contract, with Bilbao only willing to let the player leave the club if the clause is activated.
Williams plays on the left wing for Bilbao, with Liverpool already having Diaz and Cody Gakpo, who have performed in that role under Arne Slot this season. It remains to be seen if the Reds will have any plans to strengthen their forward line in January following the arrival of Federico Chiesa last summer.