Liverpool are reportedly leading the race to sign 20-year-old Spanish international Nico Williams from Athletic Club at the end of the season.
Nico Williams has been quite impressive for Athletic Club this season. And a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes claims that Liverpool will scout the 20-year-old winger during the 2022 FIFA World Cup ahead of a potential move.
It will be interesting to see if Luis Enrique is willing to give Williams ample game time in Qatar. The 20-year-old has impressed with Athletic Club this season, and he could be a game-changer for Spain at the World Cup as well.
The report from Fichajes claims that Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has asked the club hierarchy to sign a quality winger who can change games for Liverpool while coming on as a substitute. The Spanish international has thus emerged as a viable target.
The Reds are currently lacking in depth in the wide areas, and they have had to use midfielders in makeshift positions in the absence of players like Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz. Williams is an out-and-out winger, and he could prove to be an excellent long-term acquisition for the Reds.
The 20-year-old Spanish international has four goals and four assists to his name across all competitions this season. And he could be a solid long-term investment for Liverpool. Williams is thought to be on the radar of other European clubs as well, but Liverpool are currently leading the race to secure his services.
Jurgen Klopp has a proven track record of improving talented young attackers, and Williams could be attracted to the idea of playing under the German manager. Klopp could help him develop further and fulfil his world-class potential.
The 20-year-old Spanish international has a contract with Athletic Club until the summer of 2024. And if he refuses to sign an extension with them in the coming months, it would make sense to sell him in the summer.
The Basque outfit will be able to recover some money for him and invest that into their playing squad. It would also help Liverpool sign Williams for a reasonable fee because of his contract situation.