Manchester United have registered their interest in signing Neco Williams from Nottingham Forest, facing potential competition from Newcastle United, according to BBC Sport’s senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel. The development comes as Williams is currently in talks over a new contract with Forest.
Williams progressed through the Liverpool academy, making 33 first-team appearances for the Reds between January 2020 and January 2022. He then moved to Fulham on a six-month loan before securing a permanent transfer to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2022 for a reported £17 million.
Since joining Forest, the Wales international has become a consistent performer, featuring in 160 matches for the club. Williams is known for his attacking contributions from full-back and his versatility, being capable of playing on either side of the defence.
United’s interest stems from a need to strengthen their full-back options, particularly on the left side where Luke Shaw’s fitness is a concern. The club also seeks competition for Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui at right-back, and Williams’ ability to cover both positions appeals to manager Michael Carrick. Earlier this summer, United were linked with a move for Elliot Anderson from Forest, but were put off by a reported asking price exceeding £100 million.
Forest are reportedly confident of retaining Williams by agreeing to new contract terms, but the interest from both United and Newcastle presents a potential challenge. Transfermarkt currently values Williams at £24 million, though Forest would likely demand a significantly higher fee should formal negotiations begin.
