Free-spending Chelsea warned they've 'maxed out' on signing young players amid links to Spain star Nico Williams as Liverpool are urged to make a move for 'real deal' winger

Former Liverpool and Chelsea full-back Glen Johnson has discussed Williams but has warned the Blues against signing the winger. However, the former England international feels he could be a good signing for Liverpool instead. Johnson believes that while Williams is the 'real deal', Chelsea have already maxed out their youth options and need to incorporate some experience into the side.

Speaking to Betfred, Johnson said: "Williams being linked with Liverpool? I’ve not seen much of him at club level, but I’ve been impressed by what I’ve seen of him at the Euros with Spain. He looks great, but I’m always reluctant to speak about potential transfers of players that have performed well at major tournaments. These players have been looking forward to this competition for a long time and almost every game is a cup final, so you’re always looking to bring your ‘A’ game.

"Nico’s a young lad that looks the real deal and if he’s doing this week in, week out for Athletic Bilbao, then fair play. However, everyone can look good in a major tournament due to the small number of games played and it shouldn’t be the sole basis for a club to sign a player off the back of their performances at the Euros.

"If what he’s doing now is his regular level of performance, then Liverpool should definitely try and sign him."

When asked about Williams being linked with a move to Chelsea, he said: "From what I’ve seen, he’s probably better than a few they’ve already got. As I’ve said before, Chelsea have so many youngsters and I believe they need more experience in the team. They need match winners and experienced players rather than an entire squad of young gems.

"I don’t believe they need another young winger right now. Chelsea need players that have been around the Premier League for many years, that have won trophies and know how to win. I think they’re already maxed out with youngsters if I’m being completely honest."

Williams has been in eye-catching form at the Euros and has also performed very well for Athletic Club under Ernesto Valverde, and as such multiple top European clubs have shown interest in the 21-year-old including Bayern Munich and Barcelona. However, the Spaniard has maintained that he has recently signed a new contract and is not thinking about a move.

The 21-year-old was rested last time out against Albania by Luis de la Fuente but will return to the starting XI when Spain take on Georgia on June 30 in the round of 16 clash.