Since the departure of Sadio Mane, Liverpool haven’t yet found a suitable replacement . Their current squad has more direct goal scorers than creative outlets. Although Salah bears the creative burden currently. However, seeing his age and subsequent Saudi rumours, this arrangement does not look fit for the long term. Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao, offers Liverpool a very unique and necessary profile. With the inclusion of Luis Diaz as a playmaker on the left side, Nico Williams as a direct 1v1 threat and Darwin Nunez as the striker, Liverpool’s attack will be formidable.
Bilbao not bowing to youngsters demands
Athletic Bilbao, being a Basque club have a tradition of only competing with homegrown players in the team. They do not buy foreign players in the transfer window instead trust their academies to produce their first team. This tradition works both ways. It gives young Basque country players a chance to showcase their talents at the biggest stage without facing extensive competition. This policy propagates and instigates loyalty from the players. Thus, many Basque players take the decision of spending their whole careers at their home club despite of more lucrative offers (both sporting and economic).
However, for young players ambition always finds a way. Previously, reports from Spain suggested that Nico Williams was about to extend with Athletic club. Now, according to Anfield Central, the negotiations between both parties have hit a block due to Nico’s demand for a short term contract with a reasonable release clause. Claims from Spain suggested the Reds were willing to spend €88 million (£76m) to trigger his release clause in 2019.
Nico Williams walks alone, away from home
Nico’s agent recently spoke to the media about his contract expiring. He told El Correo ,”In a few months the contract ends, let’s not forget. The club knows what the player’s approach is, which is what he wants. There is no definitive offer from either party.” The delay in action by Bilbao could be beneficial to the Anfield inhabitants. Liverpool could get an exceptional talent, yet to hit his peak for free if this deal goes through. According to FIFA regulations, if a player has 6 months left on his contract, he can enter into negotiations with other clubs. Liverpool would be wise to try and sign Nico to a pre-contract. Bilbao have until January window to provide Nico with substantial incentive to stay. Else Liverpool would be waiting to swoop in for the young talent.
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