Exclusive: Liverpool growing in excitement as Nico Williams signals he could be open to Anfield move
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Liverpool are growing in excitement at the possibility of signing Nico Williams, Rousing The Kop can exclusively reveal.
The Reds are understood to have had Williams on their transfer shortlist for a long time, tracking the 22-year-old since his emergence at Athletic Bilbao.
However, RTK understands that Liverpool have previously been working under the assumption that Williams would not be interested in a move to the Premier League.
But after failing to secure a dream transfer to Barcelona in 2024, RTK have been informed that Williams is increasingly starting to believe that his future lies in England.
The Spain international has four potential options in the Premier League, with Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea all understood to be readying a push for his signature.
Liverpool excitement growing at Nico Williams possibility
Of the four clubs in the running for Williams, Liverpool and Arsenal are understood to be seen as the front-runners.
In Liverpool’s case, sources have described the Anfield side as becoming ‘excited’ at the growing possibility that they could secure Williams in 2025.
RTK have been informed that Liverpool see his release clause of around £50m as being a fantastic price for a player with such potential, regardless of Williams’ wage demands – which are likely to be slightly higher than the Reds would typically want to pay.
Despite the fee representing good value for Premier League sides, RTK understand that the finances involved make it a difficult deal for Barcelona to do.
Barca are also insistent that they see Raphinha as one of the best player’s in Europe on current form and are not looking to recruit a replacement. Williams is understood to have set his sights on the Premier League as a result.
READ MORE: David Ornstein confirms Liverpool have already explored signing Nico Williams
It is understood that there is nothing imminent surrounding Williams and any move would more likely be in the summer.
RTK have also been informed that Liverpool’s pursuit of the Athletic player is not linked to the future of Mohamed Salah, with the Reds looking at a number of options to strengthen their forward line regardless.
How is Nico Williams doing this season?
Williams came to wider attention after becoming a key player for Spain during their victorious Euro 2024 campaign.
Williams was sensational at the Euros, fittingly scoring the opening goal in the final against England.
From there, the Athletic youth graduate was expected to either make a big move or kick on at his hometown club.
However, Williams has struggled to hit the heights of the Euros, so far scoring just two goals and registering five assists in 24 matches.