Nico Williams transfer links have already had response from president amid Liverpool interest

Liverpool is one of the clubs credited with an interest in Athletic Club and Spain star Nico Williams. But suitors should be warned that the La Liga side's president has already discussed the possibility of a transfer this summer.

Barcelona is one of the teams supposedly taking a look at Williams, who is excelling at Euro 2024 — although Nou Camp officials are now thought to prefer Luis Diaz. Should that deal happen, it could theoretically pave the way for Liverpool to swoop for the Athletic star.

But four days ago, Barca Blaugranes relayed quotes from Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte. He played down the possibility of a move to Liverpool, Barcelona or anywhere else.

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"We have impressive talent in the squad," said Uriarte. "When things are like this, it’s normal that there are players who arouse interest, but we’re not here to talk about rumors.

“Nico is very happy in Bilbao and in Athletic and has commented on this many times. We are very happy with Nico."

That tallies with the understanding of football.london. Commenting on apparent interest from Spurs, the outlet has claimed that the only reason there has not been a 'rush' to trigger Williams' $59m (£47m/€55m) release clause is because the forward has shown no indication he wants to leave Athletic.

Of course, the transfer window is long, and Liverpool and Barcelona are both clubs capable of making attractive proposals. But The Daily Briefing reports that Chelsea has already decided it is "not advancing" with a move for Williams, concluding that his personal demands would be too big.

All in all, there's every indication that the standout Euro 2024 star may well be minded to follow the example of his older brother Inaki. He has spent his entire career with the Basque club — which places a special emphasis on talent retention, given its long-standing policy of only fielding players who herald from the region.

Indeed, Inaki was presented with the chance to go to Liverpool in 2019. He admitted as much to Spanish outlet AS, but never wavered in his desire to stay at Athletic.

Only time will tell if Williams Jr follows the same path. But his club president certainly doesn't seem too concerned just yet.

Liverpool.com says: It's hugely impressive how well Athletic Club continues to perform within its self-imposed limitations. In a summer where many sides are trading youth prospects as mere chips in an FFP game, it certainly makes you think— a laser focus on developing and bringing through talent can bring you top-level success.

In that respect, Nico Williams would deserve great respect if he chose to stay. At the same time, there's little doubt he would be an exciting addition for Liverpool, which must be ready to trigger the clause if the player's stance changes.