The Reds maybe flying in the Premier League but that still hasn’t deterred them from taking an interest in Basque winger, Inaki Williams. Inaki, 22 has been a part of the Athletic Bilbao's Lezama youth system since the age of 18 and broke into the senior team in the year 2012.
The Reds were interested in the 22-year-old winger back in the January window as well and were even willing to activate the €20m release clause as per The Guardian. However, the deal petered out as the youngster committed his future to the Basque side by signing an improved 5 and a half year contract.
As a result, the youngster now has a buyout clause of €50 million in his contract.
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Future Aubameyang?
Klopp during his time at Dortmund played a huge role in the development of the French-born Gabonese forward, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The German was responsible for the forward developing a clinical edge to his game.
In a report by Sky Sports, it has now been reported that Klopp intends to persuade the Bilbao player to join his improving Liverpool side. Inaki has been impressive for Bilbao ever since his breakthrough season in 2012. Blessed with explosive pace, the winger also can use his brute strength to get past the defenders.
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His stint with Bilbao’s B team was what made the senior management at San Mames take notice after he had scored 21 goals in 32 appearances. He became a regular with the Basque side only last season, making the right wing position his own, setting up 4 goals while scoring 10 goals as per whoscored.com.
His ability to dribble and hold the ball up is just one of the few assets in his repertoire. His acceleration and intelligent movement have now caught the attention of the German, whom he believes has the potential to be the next ‘Aubameyang’.
Pace the reason for such pursuit
The German has often been lauded for his liking to “gegenpressing” style. And for this style to be effective there is a demand for faster players to be included in the squad. In the summer, Klopp spent enhancing this aspect of the squad, adding Sadio Mane of Southampton.
Now, Klopp believes that the arrival of Inaki Williams can help take the Red’s style of pressing to a different level. If Inaki does arrive, it will jeopardize Sturridge’s position further in the squad.
Divock Origi is also one of the options, who Klopp believes will offer better movement in attacking terms. Origi has been steadily improving but is yet to cement his place in the current side.
However, the German who has often been vocal in promoting youth players will appreciate the arrival of Williams, as he looks to build a squad at Merseyside which will be capable of challenging for top honours for years to come.
