Liverpool look for Salah’s replacement

Liverpool are reportedly prepared to break the bank in order to sign Athletic Club winger Nico Williams. The Spain international, 23, is one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe, with the likes of Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Chelsea also eyeing up a move.Williams signed a mammoth 10-year contract in Bilbao last year, seemingly ending hopes among potential suitors of prising him away. However, the deal includes a release clause that is reportedly set to rise to €100m (£86.5m) this summer – which would be a club-record fee for his current club.

According to reports in Spain, Liverpool are willing to meet that asking price to bring Williams to Anfield. While the Spaniard would not be a like-for-like replacement for Salah – who operates on the right while Williams prefers the left – his arrival could help soften the goalscoring and star-power void.Salah’s Liverpool contract doesn’t expire until 2027, but given his disappointing recent form, and his mid-season falling out with manager Arne Slot, an end-of-season departure appears to be a possibility once again, particularly with Saudi Pro League clubs lurking..