Liverpool: Reds testing the ground for Nico Williams
Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain - October 23, 2022. FC Barcelona's Alex Balde in action with Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams.
Liverpool are testing the ground on a move to bring Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams to the Premier League this summer, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Uncertain future
The Spaniard has now entered the final 18 months of his deal in La Liga, and having not yet put pen to paper on fresh terms, his future with Ernesto Valverde’s side is currently up in the air – reports have even claimed he could well move this summer.
The 20-year-old has been one of his club’s standout performers this season, with a combination of this and his contract situation alerting potential suitors that he could be up for grabs at the end of the 2022/23 term.
The Latest: Liverpool eyeing Williams
According to Spanish outlet AS (via Sport Witness), Liverpool and Aston Villa both plan to ‘test’ the ground regarding a potential deal for Williams, who has a €50m (£44m) buyout clause.
Bilbao wouldn’t let their winger leave for a ‘euro less’ than that, and whilst he’s so far remaining ‘loyal’ to his outfit, the two top-flight clubs will still be ‘watching closely’.
The Verdict: Get it done…
Williams has been dubbed a player who has ‘pure energy’ by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and should the opportunity to sign him arise in summer, Liverpool should get the deal done.
The Pamplona native already has 12 goal contributions in 25 outings across all competitions this season and is currently averaging 1.8 shots and 1.6 dribbles per league game (WhoScored).
Bilbao’s attacker also ranks in the 94th percentile for most progressive carries per 90 minutes and has the versatility to play on both flanks, making him an ideal final third reinforcement for Jurgen Klopp.
