Liverpool launch LaLiga winger mission with Klopp already decided on explosive star’s role

Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams battling with Barcelona full-back Alex Balde Credit: Alamy
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams battling with Barcelona full-back Alex Balde Credit: Alamy

Liverpool will scout a Spanish flier at the World Cup whose role for Luis Enrique is likely to mirror that under Jurgen Klopp if he moves to Anfield, per a report.

The Reds will have no shortage of potential transfer targets to cast their eye over in Qatar. 2023 is expected to be a busy year on the transfer front at Anfield, with midfield likely taking precedence.

Jude Bellingham should be a regular starter for England and his already sky high price tag could swell further if he excels.

Arsenal have been put forth as a shock contender to hijack any deal, with one observer outlining why Liverpool could struggle to reel the Dortmund ace in.

Elsewhere, Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez could see action, as could Belgium’s Youri Tielemans.

However, today’s update regards the attacking positions, specifically on the flanks.

A Spanish report claims Liverpool will scout Spain’s Nico Williams over the next six weeks.

Nico Williams on upward trajectory

Nico is the brother of Inaki and both ply their trade for Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga.

The 20-year-old has already surpassed last season’s goals tally across all competitions after just 15 matches this campaign. He has four goals and four assists to his name and is proving difficult for opposing left-backs to blunt.

He operates primarily on the right wing, meaning he’d likely play second fiddle to Mohamed Salah if signed. However, per the report, that’s exactly what Klopp has in mind.

The German boss reportedly wants greater strength in depth in his forward line, specifically on the flanks.

With Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez both capable of operating on the left, an addition for the right side makes the most sense.

Liverpool swoop could depend on World Cup performance

Moves either in the winter window or next summer are both reportedly viable. Bilbao will be reluctant to sell, though if Williams impresses in Qatar, Liverpool could make their mind up for them with a compelling package in January.

No price tag is cited, though one factor in Liverpool’s favour is the player’s contract status.

His current deal expires in the summer of 2024, meaning he’ll be down to 18 months remaining come January. If the player doesn’t intend to pen fresh terms, Bilbao would maximise their profits by selling in 2023.

Williams has been included in Luis Enrique’s Spanish squad for the World Cup. He’s unlikely to start, though it’s claimed he’s in line to receive his fair share of minutes from the bench as defences tire.

That would suit Liverpool down to the ground given that’s the same type of role they envision him having if joining the Reds.

All eyes will be on how the lively 20-year-old performs against elite international defences. A move to Merseyside may depend on how he fares.

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