Liverpool had, what has turned out to be a very successful summer transfer window. However, one of their long time transfer targets has had his say on a possible move to Anfield
Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams has been on the Reds’ radar since January. The Premier League club were reportedly scouting the 22-year-old Spaniard in the hope of bringing him in as a backup (or possible replacement) to the struggling Daniel Sturridge.
The Reds didn’t make a move for the youngster over the summer. Williams instead signed a new deal with Athletic which includes a release clause believed to be in the region £44 million.
Recently rumors have once again been circulating that Liverpool will make a move for the forward in January. However, there’s some bad news for the Reds on that front as Williams has stated that he wants to continue at Athletic for many years to come.
“Like I said at the time. I’m happy at Athletic, it’s where I want to be,” Williams said in an interview with Spanish publication AS Diario, when asked about the rumors linking him to Anfield.
“I am very grateful to the fans, the club and my team mates. I want to continue here for many more years. I want to be Athletic’s future No.9 – the player who raises the roof at San Mamés every week and scores lot of goals.”
The 22-year-old forward had his breakthrough season in 2015-16. Williams notched up 13 goals and six assists in 37 appearances for the Basque based club in all competitions. He’s notched up a goal and two assists in eight La Liga appearances this season as well.
Williams has primarily been deployed in a right-wing role, but can also play in a central striker position. Liverpool have already invested in a right winger this past summer, and Sadio Mane is lighting up proceedings for the Reds so far.
The Reds’ interest may have been strong in January 2016. However, it is highly unlikely that Jurgen Klopp will authorize such a high transfer for a player they don’t really need in January 2017.
