Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams “is not under consideration” as a transfer target for Liverpool, according to journalist James Pearce.
Writing in The Athletic‘s Transfer DealSheet column, Pearce said that the club are considering strengthening their options in wide areas but they don’t need to reinforce the left flank where Williams likes to play.
Some supporters on X are not happy that the Merseyside club have opted against signing Williams, while others are not surprised considering the forward’s wage demands:
Lmao this club is such a joke
— Acqua (@AcquaLFC) June 25, 2024
Fair enough he wants 300k a week
— james (@james20041710) June 25, 2024
If he's not under consideration then who's much better than him
— Winston (@Winston401619) June 25, 2024
There’s no chance we couldn’t afford him anyway
— timetrialstapes (@stapley_mark) June 25, 2024
Just whyyyyyyy
— Rick Ramos (@nagumork77) June 25, 2024
I think this was obvious, guy is only a decent player so far and he wants near 300k a week.
— Adam (@Adam01217311369) June 25, 2024
FSG OUT 🤬🤬🤬
— This is the land of Make believe (@PGMOLCORRUPT) June 25, 2024
Well obviously yes, when he earns on par with VVD
— Aya (@NewHouse_NM) June 25, 2024
What has Williams said about his future?
The 21-year-old has impressed with his performances for Spain at the European Championships and the existence of a €58m (£49m) release clause in his contract has prompted speculation that he could leave Bilbao this summer. However, speaking to reporters at the weekend, the winger played down talk of a transfer:
“I signed a new contract with Bilbao a few weeks ago, and I feel very happy there… It’s very strange to get questions about my future now. I am very happy where I am.”
Williams could still join another Premier League team even if Liverpool drop out
The buyout clause means a move cannot be completely ruled out and, if he doesn’t join the Reds, another English team could take advantage.
Both Chelsea and Arsenal have also been mentioned as potential suitors. However, as some fans have pointed out, any deal could be scuppered by his sizeable salary.
