Liverpool eye £77m FIFA World Cup‑winning winger as Salah exit looms

Liverpool are within reach of signing 24‑year‑old Spanish winger Nico Williams for his £77 million release clause, a FIFA World Cup‑winning forward who starred in Spain’s 2026 triumph, reports say. The deal would see the player join the club at Anfield this summer.

The Reds have already moved on from Mohamed Salah, agreeing to terminate his £400,000‑per‑week contract a year early. Salah’s early exit creates a sizeable wage bill and a tactical void that Liverpool must fill in the current transfer window.

Bradley Barcola remains the headline name in the frame for an Anfield arrival, but Paris Saint‑Germain are demanding £145 million for the France international. The French club’s demand reflects the player’s desire not to extend his contract beyond its 2028 expiry date.

£140 million hurdle forces Liverpool to weigh Barcola bid

Liverpool could also add Federico Chiesa if Richard Hughes decides to cash in on the Italian winger. The potential move would give Jurgen Klopp another option on the flanks alongside any new signing.

Williams renewed his contract with Athletic Club last summer, extending it to 2035 on a mammoth salary, yet a £77 million release clause sits in his deal – roughly half of what Barcola would cost. Arsenal currently lead the chase, but Liverpool remain keen and have kept the player on their radar.

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The Spanish forward won the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain, delivering a game‑changing impact in the final. After an injury‑hit season, he is working back to full fitness and could add spark to Liverpool’s left side under fellow Bilbao academy graduate Andoni Iraola.

If the transfer materialises, Liverpool would replace Salah’s goal threat with a World Cup‑winning talent, bolstering their attack for the upcoming campaign. For Williams, the move offers a Premier League platform and the chance to revive his career at a club eager to rebuild its front line.