Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has caught the eye with his performances for Spain at Euro 2024, with Liverpool reportedly interested in a bargain deal.
Williams has started both of Spain’s Group B games at this summer’s Euros so far, and it was his delivery from the left that forced the winner against Italy on Thursday.
According to FotMob, the 21-year-old attempted 10 dribbles, by far the most of any player, as well as creating the most chances (four) and taking the most touches in the opposition box (eight).
One ball from the left flank was headed in by Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori – a player on Liverpool’s radar – after a deflection as Spain won 1-0.
It was a performance that made many take notice of Williams’ quality and potential, something that seems to have already been appreciated by those on Merseyside.
According to The Athletic’s Spanish journalist Pol Ballus, the Athletic Club striker has been “discussed” as a potential target for Liverpool “if a winger is needed for Arne Slott’s new project”.
More importantly, it was detailed that Williams would be available for a fee of £47m due to a release clause in his contract.
Williams, the brother and team-mate of former Liverpool target Inaki Williams, scored eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 games for the Bilbao club last season.
He did so almost exclusively on the left wing – where his last 10 games for Spain were – but he has actually spent most of his career on the right wing.
That could certainly make him an attractive option for Slott and Reds sporting director Richard Hughes, who is expected to be in the market for a wide player this summer.
While the focus is currently on establishing a back-up or competition for Mohamed Salah on the right, he could also open up on the left.
Diaz replacement?
Barcelona are credited with an interest in Williams but appear to be focusing more attention on Luis Diaz, although claims of a meeting with representatives in the United States have been played down.
If Diaz leaves Anfield, as many expect could be the case if the right offer is made, a place on the left could emerge for Williams.
Slott may still have other plans for the role, of course, with Cody Gakpo likely to be considered for a return to his natural position.
But the priority remains on the right flank in any case, and given his experience in that role, there’s a chance that those Williams discussions will develop into more.
