Manchester United targets Neco Williams amid Newcastle interest
Nottingham Forest's versatile full-back has become one of the most sought-after defenders in the Premier League, with multiple clubs circling despite a contract that runs until 2029.
Neco Williams is having a moment. The Nottingham Forest full-back, fresh off a Player of the Season campaign, has reportedly attracted interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United, turning what should be a quiet summer for Forest into a defensive tug-of-war.
No formal bids have landed yet. But in the Premier League transfer market, “discreet inquiries” are basically the opening credits before the main feature.
The full picture on Williams
Williams joined Forest from Liverpool back in July 2022 for a reported £17 million fee. Three years later, that gamble looks like one of the better defensive signings in the league.
The 25-year-old earned Forest’s Player of the Season award for the 2025/26 campaign, a recognition that essentially put a neon “come get me” sign above his head for every big club scanning the market for defensive upgrades.
Williams can play left-back or right-back with equal competence, making him a versatile option for any club seeking defensive reinforcements.
Forest extended Williams’ contract in July 2025, locking him down until 2029. That gives the club significant leverage in any negotiations, as you don’t have to sell a player with three years left on his deal unless someone makes you an offer that’s genuinely hard to refuse.
Why United and Newcastle are circling
Beyond Manchester United and Newcastle, Aston Villa and Everton have also reportedly registered interest, with discreet inquiries noted in mid-May 2026. When clubs from across the Premier League spectrum are all looking at the same player, it usually means the player is either undervalued or about to become very expensive.
Forest’s position and what to watch
Nottingham Forest reportedly views Williams as a key contributor to their squad going forward and is said to be preparing a new contract offer to ward off the growing interest, even though his current deal doesn’t expire until 2029.
Forest paid £17 million for Williams in 2022. Given his contract length, his age profile, and the current inflation in the transfer market, any serious bid would likely need to be significantly north of that figure.
As of the latest reporting, no formal transfer bids or agreements have been made for Williams.