He’ll exceed Semenyo: Liverpool set to make bid for £83m winger
Liverpool supporters have been in a state of limbo this season, with Arne Slot’s squad seeming worlds apart from their title-winning form last year. Nevertheless, there has been some improvement in recent times. The Reds remain unbeaten in their last four Premier League encounters, and their 2-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League has strengthened their position in the quest for the knockout stage. However, Slot’s team must enhance their performance. This season, Liverpool has revealed a tactical imbalance, and with each defeat, their confidence has eroded, leaving the Premier League champions stripped of their status as one of Europe’s most formidable teams.
Slot merits respect, and it is evident that FSG is not inclined to terminate his tenure just yet. However, change is necessary, and with the January transfer window approaching rapidly, sporting director Richard Hughes is contemplating a bid for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
Liverpool’s intentions to acquire a winger
Liverpool is keen on securing Semenyo this upcoming winter, but it appears that other Premier League clubs are equally interested. His signature is highly sought after, and although Liverpool stands a viable chance in the competition, exploring alternatives would be prudent.
There is no doubt that Liverpool feels the absence of Luis Diaz, whose speed and direct approach in the attacking third have now been claimed by Bayern Munich. However, Nico Williams shares similar physical and athletic qualities with Semenyo and the Colombian, leading Spanish outlets to suggest that FSG is arranging a €95m (approximately £83m) bid.
Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams
The Spain international was on the verge of joining Barcelona last summer, yet he remains with Athletic Bilbao, who are currently struggling to find attacking rhythm in La Liga. While Semenyo is the primary target, Liverpool should consider the bigger picture, with Williams having the potential to develop into one of the finest players globally.
Reasons behind Liverpool’s interest in Nico Williams
When Spain clinched the 2021 European Championship, Williams was central to their success. Now at 23, he was just beginning to announce his arrival on the scene at that time, maturing into one of Spain’s standout talents.
While he may not possess Semenyo’s refinement just yet, the potential for growth is immense. Williams’ remarkable speed and ball control have garnered admiration, with critics praising his skills that many defenders struggle to counter. In this regard, he is already viewed as “world-class,” according to journalist Zach Lowy. Although his contributions for Bilbao have dwindled this season and last, this indicates deeper offensive challenges at the Basque club, having recorded only 15 league goals throughout the season, meaning the Spanish winger has been involved in 40% of their offensive actions.
Nico Williams – La Liga Stats by Season
| Season | Apps | Goals + Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 25/26 | 13 | 3 + 3 |
| 24/25 | 29 | 5 + 5 |
| 23/24 | 31 | 5 + 13 |
| 22/23 | 34 | 0 + 0 |
| 21/22 | 2 | 0 + 0 |
Data via Transfermarkt
This season, Williams hasn’t been at his best, but he remains one of the most exciting and versatile wingers in the sport. According to FBref, he ranks in the top 11% for shot-creating actions among positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the last year and the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes.
A successful take-on is counted when a player surpasses their opponent by carrying the ball past them while maintaining possession.
Nevertheless, it would be foolish to overlook his talent and potential. Described as a “nightmare for defenders” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Williams has similar thrill factor to Semenyo, showcasing that elusive nature that sets him apart.
Semenyo, meanwhile, is currently enjoying a standout season in the Premier League. The 25-year-old has netted seven goals and contributed three assists in the league this season. As a prominent figure, he boasts impressive underlying statistics, winning 6.6 duels and averaging 1.6 tackles and dribbles per match in 2025/26, according to Sofascore. However, Williams, being several years younger, has already proven he can excel and shine on the biggest platforms. Liverpool is in need of a winger, and while Semenyo would yield immediate impacts, Williams may represent a more worthwhile long-term investment. His talent is undeniable, and he continues to improve.
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Published: 2025-12-18 17:15:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
