Liverpool are reportedly prepared to pay the release clause for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, a move that could spark showdown talks with Mohamed Salah over his future at Anfield. The 21-year-old impressed for Spain at Euro 2024 and is seen as a key target for new head coach Arne Slot.
According to reports in Spain, the Premier League club are ready to meet the release clause, reported to be in the region of £45m. However, Williams is said to be demanding wages of £300,000-a-week, which would place him just behind Salah, who earns nearly £350,000-a-week, among Liverpool's highest earners.
The potential arrival of Williams could lead to a collision course with Salah, whose contract expires in 12 months. The Egyptian has been the subject of intense speculation, with Saudi Pro League clubs expected to bid again after Al Ittihad's £150m offer was rejected last summer. Liverpool must decide whether to cash in or risk losing him on a free transfer.
Luis Diaz's expected departure to Barcelona has increased the need for a winger, with Williams viewed as an ideal replacement after a proposed move for Newcastle's Anthony Gordon fell through. Salah's relationship with the club was strained last season when he clashed with then-manager Jurgen Klopp during a draw at West Ham.
Despite speculation, Salah has remained coy on his future, but after Klopp's final home game, he insisted he is focused on Anfield. Given his age, a new improved deal would represent a long-term risk, and the club may face an inflated wage bill if both players are to be accommodated.
