Liverpool’s search for the heir to Mohamed Salah’s throne remains one of the most pressing narratives at Anfield.
Since the Egyptian king’s departure was confirmed, a standard has been set that the Reds have yet to fully replicate on the right flank. While a seven-man shortlist was initially mooted to fill the void, the transfer committee is reportedly circling back to a familiar name who could ignite Anfield: Nico Williams.
The Athletic Bilbao star has exploded onto the world stage, and his stellar performances have put Europe’s elite on high alert. With the summer transfer window in full swing, Liverpool are positioning themselves to strike a deal for the explosive winger.
The Jurgen Klopp connection: A long-term vision resurfaces
Liverpool’s interest in Williams is far from a knee-jerk reaction. Back in April 2023, reports revealed that former manager Jurgen Klopp had identified the Spanish international as the ideal, long-term successor to Salah. Klopp loved Williams’ raw pace, directness, and immense ceiling for growth.
Fast forward over three years, and the Anfield hierarchy completely agrees with their former manager’s scouting report. While the dugout has changed, the club’s data-driven recruitment team still views Williams as a perfect stylistic fit for Liverpool’s high-intensity system.
A Premier League battle royale
Securing Williams’ signature will require a massive fight. According to a report from TeamTalk, a major tug-of-war is brewing among the Premier League’s elite. Mikel Arteta has placed the World Cup star high on his shortlist to add elite depth to the Gunners’ attacking frontline.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United are all actively monitoring Williams situation in Spain.
Currently, Williams is blocking out all transfer noise. He has locked his focus entirely on the World Cup, where he hopes to guide Spain to international glory. Because football fans expect La Roja to make a deep run into the knockout stages, no club will likely resolve this transfer saga until late July at the absolute earliest.
The tactical dilemma: left vs right
During the 2025/26 campaign with Athletic Bilbao, Williams enjoyed a productive season, racking up six goals and seven assists. However, he did the bulk of his damage from the left wing. This presents an interesting tactical puzzle for Liverpool. While Williams can play across the front line, the immediate vacancy sits on the right wing.
Because of this positional challenge, Liverpool are keeping their options open and maintaining interest in other prospects. The highly-rated attacker Yan Diomande remains a firm target for the Reds, while the PSG forward Bradley Barcola has also drawn heavy links to Merseyside in recent months.
Much like the Williams situation, Liverpool failed to finalise a move for Diomande prior to the World Cup. Consequently, fans face a waiting game until these players finish their international duties.
ReadLiverpoolFC Verdict
Nico Williams is an absolute superstar in the making. The fact that Liverpool remain firmly in the conversation proves the club still holds immense pulling power. Williams possesses the terrifying pace, elite dribbling, and big-game temperament required to thrive under the Anfield lights.
Jurgen Klopp rated him three years ago, the current recruitment team rates him now, and his talent is undeniable.
However, from a tactical standpoint, we see a slight catch. Williams plays his best football on the left flank a position that Cody Gakpo already occupies. If Liverpool truly want a direct replacement to replicate Mohamed Salah’s goalscoring output from the right side, Williams must adapt his game, or the club must sign a secondary target like Yan Diomande alongside him.
If Williams gives the green light, Liverpool should absolutely trigger his release clause. He is a genuine game-changer. Just buckle up, Reds fans—with the World Cup dominating the schedule, this will turn into a classic, late-summer transfer saga.
