Manchester United 'join' Liverpool FC in race to sign Nico Williams

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, but they will face competition from Liverpool for his signature.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes (via TeamTalk), United are believed to be battling it out with Jurgen Klopp's side for the talented 20-year-old. Erik ten Hag appears to have taken notice of the youngster following his superb start to the season with Bilbao.

Williams has started 13 of the 14 La Liga games for his club this season, scoring three times and providing four assists in the process. His fine form has seen Liverpool take an interest in him alongside United, as the Merseyside team are thought to view him as backup to Mohamed Salah.

Ten Hag's reputation for youth development at Ajax could give him the advantage with negotiations, as he looks to convince the Spaniard to join him at Old Trafford in the near future. With Williams' contract set to expire in the summer of 2024, there is the possibility that Bilbao will be tempted to sell their starlet before he enters the final year of his deal next season.

Elsewhere, German outlet Sport1 have poured cold water over the possibility of Benjamin Pavard moving to United in January.

The right-back was heavily linked with the club over the summer, as Ten Hag looked to bolster his options in defence. The superb performances of Diogo Dalot this season have lessened the urgency in that position no doubt, yet the Portugal international is in need of support.

However, it is now thought that Bayern Munich have categorically ruled out a winter move for their player, as they look to sit down with the 26-year-old and discuss his future after the World Cup. Should Dalot pick up an injury while in Qatar, it appears as if United now have one less option as a replacement this January.