Liverpool have the opportunity to sign £78m forward
Liverpool’s transfer strategy continues to evolve under Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes. Even after an extraordinary £450m outlay last summer, recruitment planning remains active, particularly in attacking areas where questions persist.
While Liverpool boast enviable depth across the frontline, uncertainty still frames the discussion. Mohamed Salah could be set to leave in 2026. On the left flank, the club opted against adding a senior option last year, instead fast tracking academy talent Rio Ngumoha into contention alongside Cody Gakpo but that decision has not stopped Liverpool from surveying the wider market.
Athletic Club season unravels
Events at Athletic Club have added intrigue. A campaign that promised progress has instead unravelled, with the Basque side drifting outside the European qualification places in LaLiga. Their hopes of advancing in the Champions League are fading, and a bruising 5-0 Super Cup semi final defeat to Barcelona highlighted the scale of their struggles.
According to El Nacional, failure to secure European football could carry serious financial consequences. Athletic’s wage commitments are substantial, particularly following last summer’s long term contract extensions handed to key players.
Nico Williams situation attracts interest
One name stands out amid the uncertainty. Nico Williams signed a remarkable 10 year deal in 2025, tying him to the club until 2035. The agreement includes a €90m (£78m) release clause, though current form makes that valuation difficult to justify in the present market.
Williams has recorded three goals and three assists this season, with much of that output arriving on the opening weekend against Sevilla. A groin issue earlier in the campaign disrupted his momentum, restricting him to 12 league starts and preventing sustained rhythm.
El Nacional report that both Liverpool and Arsenal are tracking the situation, aware that Athletic may need to reassess their stance if European revenue disappears.
Calculated decisions ahead at Anfield
For Liverpool, this is less about urgency and more about readiness. Slot’s system demands wide players who combine intensity with discipline, and Williams’ pace and directness fit that profile on paper. Whether Liverpool would engage at the quoted figure remains doubtful, but circumstances in Bilbao could yet alter the dynamics as the season concludes.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter’s standpoint, caution feels appropriate. Nico Williams has clear ability, but recent production does not immediately justify talk of a £78m deal. Liverpool’s recent spending spree heightens expectations that future additions will be precise rather than opportunistic.
There is also the question of squad balance. With Gakpo established, Ngumoha emerging and Salah still at the club, another wide forward could create congestion rather than clarity. Supporters are likely to ask whether investment might be better directed towards positions with clearer long term need.
The Athletic Club angle also deserves scrutiny. Their reputation for holding firm should not be underestimated. Even in difficult seasons, they rarely compromise on player value or principles, and any suggestion of a cut price exit feels optimistic.
Ultimately, fans may view this report as one to monitor rather than embrace. If market conditions soften and the fee aligns with risk, Williams could be an intriguing option. Until then, many will trust Slot and Hughes to prioritise stability and value over headlines.
