Nico Williams Jr's release clause spells no brainer Liverpool transfer decision for Arne Slot

Arne Slot should not wait for this one. Liverpool must be aggressive in pursuing Nico Williams, activate his release clause this summer and declare their position in acquiring the exciting attacker.

The Athletic Bilbao left winger has impressed when playing for Spain at the European Championships, showing exactly why he is seen as one of the more up-and-coming players in European soccer. Williams has been the go-to left forward for Spain through their first two games - being rested in their final group game ahead of the knockouts while being preferred over some extremely talented players.

And it's not difficult to see why, Williams' rare combination of speed, athleticism, and finesse is something that every team will be attracted by - being the perfect profile to be Arne Slot's long-term answer on the left, or perhaps a replacement for Mohamed Salah.

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A player capable of playing with either foot, Williams' versatility is something that Athletic Bilbao has looked to make the most of over the past two seasons - putting him in numerous positions across the front three to exploit opposition weaknesses.

In Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez especially, the Reds already have three players who can be used similarly, with Williams adding that group, giving them another potential match-up for defenses to be concerned about.

So why wait? Liverpool, as well as every other team to have interest, will be fully aware of Williams' $53.4m (£42.2m/€50m) release clause in his contract. As soon as the EURO's is over, Bilbao will expect a number of teams to pounce and activate this - being an incredible value for money in the current market.

This is the type of deal that Liverpool has looked to make early in the summer window's, previously activating the clauses of Alexis Mac Allister last summer, and Fabinho's back in 2018. Both these deals were around the same as the Reds will be paying for Williams - will likely having to give him a huge bonus to attract him to Anfield.

But should Liverpool act quickly, they could jump the queue - while making Williams and his representatives aware of just how much he is wanted to be a long-term answer with the Reds.

With Luis Diaz' future uncertain amid his links to Barcelona, as well as him being six years older than Williams, the Reds might even be tempted to cash in on the Colombian - who could actually pay for Williams' fee with his selling.

Williams already has the reported backing from Slot for Liverpool to pursue him, Michael Edwards, Richard Hughes and company need not wait. The 21-year-old's signature would signal an extremely signing future under the new head coach - and bring new life to what had been a frustrating attacking line-up last season.