Liverpool are reportedly laying the groundwork for a significant summer transfer, with plans to submit an £83 million bid for a standout La Liga winger as part of their long-term succession plan for Mohamed Salah. Contrary to recent speculation, the player in question is not Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, but Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams.
The Reds are believed to be actively searching for a wide attacker capable of eventually stepping into Salah’s role. While Liverpool have already invested heavily in attacking reinforcements in recent transfer windows, the club’s recruitment strategy remains focused on securing elite-level talent who can shape the team’s future.
According to reports from Spain, Liverpool are prepared to trigger Nico Williams’ €95 million release clause, which equates to approximately £83 million. The 23-year-old has been admired by Liverpool for several seasons, and the club now appears ready to act decisively to bring him to Anfield.
Williams was strongly linked with a move to Barcelona in the past but chose to remain loyal to Athletic Bilbao. However, his commitment is now being tested as the club endures a difficult campaign. After finishing fourth in La Liga last season, Athletic have struggled to maintain momentum and currently sit seventh in the table, having lost three of their last five league matches.
Their problems extend beyond domestic competition. Athletic are at risk of an early exit from the Champions League, currently sitting 28th in the league phase with just five points and two matches remaining. This downturn has reportedly left Williams frustrated, with claims that he feels disillusioned by promises of a competitive project that have not been fulfilled.
As a result, the winger is said to be seriously considering a move away from Spain, with the Premier League emerging as an attractive destination. This season, Williams has registered three goals and three assists in all competitions, a return that falls below expectations for a player of his calibre. While injuries have played a role, the club’s overall struggles appear to have had a significant impact on his form and outlook.
Primarily a left winger but also effective on the right, Williams’ versatility makes him an appealing option for Liverpool. His profile aligns closely with the club’s desire to secure a dynamic wide forward who can grow into the role currently occupied by Salah.
Liverpool’s determination to find a long-term successor has intensified amid concerns that Salah has not consistently reached his usual standards this season. While the Egyptian remains a key figure, the club is clearly planning ahead to ensure continuity at the highest level.
Although Liverpool have also been repeatedly linked with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, uncertainty continues to surround the Brazilian’s future. With conflicting reports emerging from Spain, a move for Rodrygo appears far from guaranteed, pushing Liverpool to focus their attention on more attainable targets such as Nico Williams
