In a seismic shift that’s set to rock the Premier League, Liverpool are on the verge of pulling off one of the most audacious transfers in recent memory. The Reds are reportedly gearing up to smash their transfer record with a staggering $111 million (€95m / £83m) raid on Athletic Bilbao for Spanish sensation Nico Williams, positioning the 23-year-old winger as the heir apparent to Mohamed Salah’s throne at Anfield.
With Salah turning 34 next season and showing subtle signs of decline—coupled with his recent public frustrations at the club—Liverpool boss Arne Slot is wasting no time in planning for the future. Williams, who dazzled for Spain at Euro 2024 and has been a standout for Bilbao, is seen as the perfect fit to ignite the right flank. Despite signing a mammoth 10-year extension with Athletic Club just last July, the Basque outfit’s release clause has Liverpool licking their lips, ready to trigger it in an “all-out offensive” over the coming months.
Sources from Spanish outlet Fichajes indicate that the Reds are “preparing” a mega bid, sparing no expense to lure the dynamic forward who boasts 18 goals and assists this season alone. This isn’t just a transfer; it’s a statement. Liverpool, fresh off heavy summer investments exceeding £450 million, are doubling down on their attacking prowess, viewing Williams as the missing piece to sustain their title charge.
Imagine the scenes: Williams, with his blistering pace and clinical finishing, donning the famous red jersey, linking up with the likes of Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa. But hold on—reports suggest Gakpo’s inconsistency in one-on-one situations has prompted this bold move, while Salah’s form dip and Chiesa’s integration struggles have accelerated the timeline.
But that’s not all the drama unfolding at Anfield. In a boost for the midfield engine room, Alexis Mac Allister is poised for a fresh contract extension, despite a patchy 2025 marred by fitness woes. The 26-year-old Argentine, who was pivotal in last season’s title triumph, remains a cornerstone under Slot. Talks are in the “very preliminary” stages, but with his current deal running until 2028, Liverpool are keen to lock him down long-term, signaling confidence in his rebound.
This double whammy—securing Salah’s successor while tying down Mac Allister—heralds a new chapter for Liverpool. Real Madrid may have their eyes on Williams too, leveraging Xabi Alonso’s Basque connections, but the Reds’ financial muscle and Premier League allure could tip the scales. Fans are buzzing on X, with posts flooding in about the potential “earthquake” transfer.
As the January window looms and summer plans crystallize, one thing’s clear: Liverpool aren’t just rebuilding—they’re reloading. The Salah era may be waning, but with Williams on the horizon, the Kop could be roaring louder than ever. Stay tuned; this blockbuster is just getting started!