Anfield’s €95M Gamble: Liverpool Eyes Nico Williams to Rescue Project After Premier League Slump
The Anfield side is looking to add more depth on the wings and believe they could find that solution in the Spanish winger.
The ambitious blueprint laid out by Liverpool FC hasn’t quite landed with the impact many expected. Following their crowning as Premier League champions last season, the club decided to shake up the market with an unprecedented investment, overhauled a squad that was already considered elite. The message was clear: no complacency, no losing the grip on domestic or continental dominance.
To achieve this, Anfield welcomed some of the biggest names and brightest prospects in the game, including Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike. Expectations among the fans soared, dreaming of a dominant era. However, the competitive reality of the 2025/26 season has proven far more complex than anticipated.
The "Champagne" Signings vs. Harsh Reality
Despite the emotional high of the new signings, some of the team's pillars have struggled to find their best form. The midfield has lost its trademark consistency, the defense has oscillated between brilliance and unexpected lapses, and the attack—while packed with talent—has lacked the clinical edge required in "clutch" moments.
The recent defeat against Manchester City was the final blow to their hopes of retaining the domestic title. That stumble left the team with no margin for error in the title race, forcing a drastic shift in objectives. With the Premier League trophy effectively out of reach, the UEFA Champions League has emerged as the ultimate "life raft" for the season.
Nico Williams: The €95M Solution?
According to reports from Spain, the name seducing the Merseyside hierarchy is Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger has established himself as one of the most explosive talents in world football, thanks to his blistering speed, elite dribbling, and unique ability to dismantle deep-sitting defenses.
Liverpool is reportedly prepared to trigger his €95 million ($103M) release clause, which was set following his recent renewal. While a staggering figure, it is not out of reach for a club that proved its financial muscle in the last window.
The Barça Backstory: Interestingly, Williams was inches away from joining FC Barcelona months ago, a move that collapsed due to LaLiga registration hurdles. Consequently, he extended his contract with the Basque side until 2035—a "shield" that may prove thinner than expected.
A Window of Opportunity
The current situation at Athletic Club is playing into Liverpool's hands. Early elimination from European competitions and a disappointing mid-table position in LaLiga have cast doubts over their sporting project. This scenario could open the door for Williams to seek a "competitive leap" immediately.
At Anfield, the directive is simple: they need more flair and freshness on the flanks to revitalize an attack that has underperformed. If negotiations progress, Liverpool could be looking at another blockbuster acquisition. The message coming out of the club is deafening: the investment does not stop. While the season hasn't met expectations, the ambition remains intact, and the next market will once again see the English champions as the main protagonists.
