Manchester United have made quiet enquiries about signing Neco Williams, the versatile full-back currently at Nottingham Forest, as the club prepares for a summer overhaul ahead of their return to Champions League football. The move represents a long-term contingency plan to address depth at left-back, where Luke Shaw will turn 31 next month. Multiple clubs including Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Everton have also registered interest in the Welsh international.
Williams' Rise at Nottingham Forest
Williams, 25, arrived at the City Ground from Liverpool in 2022 for £17 million after spending 15 years in the Merseyside club's academy and senior setup. Despite limited opportunities at Anfield—where Trent Alexander-Arnold's dominance restricted his appearances—Williams has flourished in the East Midlands. The right-footed defender has become a crucial asset for Forest, featuring predominantly on the left flank this season and even wearing the captain's armband on occasion. His 55 caps for Wales underline his development into a senior international player of substance.
Forest value Williams highly within their squad and have already moved to protect their asset. The club has initiated contract discussions with the player and his representatives to secure a new and improved deal, effectively raising barriers against potential suitors. This defensive posture suggests Forest's reluctance to lose a player instrumental to both their domestic league challenges and European campaigns.
United's Transfer Strategy
United's interest in Williams forms part of a broader recruitment strategy this summer. The club will invest significantly in their squad, with midfield reinforcement the primary focus. Elliot Anderson remains the priority signing, with United preparing formal club-to-club negotiations with Nottingham Forest—a deal that would shatter the club's all-time transfer record. Williams could potentially feature in wider discussions between the two clubs, though Forest's contract talks suggest they intend to retain him.
Shaw's age and injury history have made addressing left-back depth a legitimate concern for Erik ten Hag's planning. Williams offers experience, versatility, and proven Premier League credentials. However, Forest's swift action in tying down their captain indicates the challenge ahead for United in prying the Welsh star away from Nottingham this summer.
