Liverpool transfer news amid Adrien Rabiot ‘approach’ and Nico Williams green light

The wait for Liverpool’s first signing of the summer continues, and it won’t be long before the Reds kick off the new season.

Arne Slot is set to take his new side to the United States later this month, with friendlies against Real Betis, Arsenal and Manchester United starting on July 27. The Reds return home to face Sevilla at Anfield on August 11, before the 2024/25 season kicks off against Ipswich on August 17.

Fans will no doubt be hoping to see some new faces arrive before then, and there has certainly been no shortage of names attached.

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Here’s Liverpool.com’s verdict on the transfer gossip that has emerged around the Reds today, including the latest on Adrien Rabiot and Nico Williams.

Adrien Rabiot (Juventus)

Liverpool are one of three Premier League clubs who have been approached by Adrien Rabiot’s representatives over a potential transfer, according to HITC.

The midfielder is a free agent after his contract with Juventus expired. The Italian club have no plans to make another contract offer after failing to receive any response ahead of Euro 2024.

It is now suggested that Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United have been approached to make them aware of the 29-year-old’s situation. Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and AC Milan have also been linked elsewhere.

Liverpool.com says: It’s the rumour that just won’t go away. Rabiot looks set to be forever linked with Liverpool, no matter what stage of his career he’s at.

Although he is a free agent, it is not a deal the Reds would be wise to consider. They are already well stocked in the more advanced midfield positions following last summer’s rebuild, and at 29, Rabiot would only be a short-term option.

Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)

La Liga president Javier Tebas has seemingly given Barcelona the green light to complete a move for Nico Williams this summer. The Athletic Bilbao winger will be in action for Spain in the Euro 2024 final against England later this year amid speculation over his future, with Liverpool among the clubs who have been linked with his services.

Tebas, however, suggested that Barca will be in a position to complete a transfer for the 22-year-old despite their well-publicised financial problems. “If they reach the 1:1 norm, they will be able to do it,” Tebas said (via The Standard).

“You have to think that with Barcelona’s effort to reduce its wage bill by more than 200 million and other measures that have already taken place within the club and that have nothing to do with the levers, they could perfectly well bring in a player like Nico Williams.”

Liverpool.com says: Williams has always looked unlikely for Liverpool, and Tebas’ comments all but confirm that if he does leave Bilbao, it will be for Barcelona. No doubt speculation will increase after tonight’s final.