Gaizka Mendieta believes new Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola could tempt Nico Williams away from Athletic Bilbao. Williams committed his long-term future to the La Liga club last summer, signing a new deal until 2035 with a release clause around £77m.
Mendieta, a former Barcelona and Valencia midfielder, said: “There will definitely be interest in Nico Williams and Andoni Iraola might be able to convince him to join Liverpool. He is a great, versatile player, I prefer him on the left, but he can play on both sides.”
Iraola was appointed Liverpool boss last week, signing a two-year contract to succeed the sacked Arne Slot. The 43-year-old emerged as Liverpool’s top target after guiding Bournemouth to 12th, ninth and sixth-placed finishes in the Premier League.
Mendieta added: “Andoni Iraola is a great fit for Liverpool thanks to his style, but also because Iraola has already been in the Premier League. The players have already seen the style of football he plays on a weekly basis.”
Williams has been linked with a move away from Athletic Bilbao for some time, with Barcelona also reportedly interested. Mendieta suggested that a strong World Cup performance could reignite transfer rumours.
