Liverpool plot shock €95m move for Salah heir as Barcelona ruled out
Long term planning already in motion
Liverpool are quietly shaping their next attacking phase, with attention focused on the medium to long term rather than immediate recruitment. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the club has identified Athletic Club winger Nico Williams as a key target for 2026.
The report indicates that Liverpool’s recruitment strategy prioritises early identification of elite talent, allowing gradual squad evolution rather than reactive rebuilding.
Major investment considered
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are prepared to make an offer worth €95 million, roughly £83 million, when conditions align. Williams is viewed internally as a player capable of anchoring Liverpool’s next attacking cycle rather than providing a short term fix.
The Spain international’s age profile and development curve are seen as matching the club’s longer range competitive planning.
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Succession planning in attack
Fichajes reports that Liverpool believe Williams has the quality to deliver a level of attacking influence comparable to Mohamed Salah’s impact last season, even if the tactical role differs. The emphasis is on preserving creativity, speed and productivity as the forward line evolves.
Williams’ direct approach and ability to stretch defences are considered well suited to Liverpool’s system, according to the Spanish report.
Barcelona finances limit competition
According to Fichajes, Barcelona are effectively unable to pursue a deal of this scale. The outlet reports that ongoing financial constraints would prevent the Catalan club from generating the funds required to compete for Williams’ signature.
That reality could leave Liverpool with a clearer pathway should interest be formalised in a future window.
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A move shaped by timing and ambition
No formal bid has been submitted, and Athletic Club have not issued any public response. Williams remains a central figure at his boyhood club, while Liverpool continue to monitor squad needs, financial flexibility and player trajectories over the coming seasons.
Whether the reported plan progresses will ultimately depend on timing, market conditions and the player’s own ambitions.
Sources: Fichajes
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