Manchester United’s interest in Neco Williams offers another indication that Michael Carrick wants a dependable full-back capable of operating on either side of his defence.
United and Newcastle United are reportedly among several Premier League clubs monitoring the Nottingham Forest defender.
No formal bid has been submitted. Forest remain confident of keeping Williams and are working to improve his terms despite his current contract running until 2029.
The Wales international would offer United Premier League experience, tactical flexibility and a strong recent fitness record. However, Forest’s negotiating position means he may not provide the inexpensive solution his profile initially suggests.
Williams offers reliability on both sides
Williams has developed into one of Forest’s most consistent performers since joining from Liverpool in 2022.
He played primarily on the left last season despite being naturally right-footed. He can also operate at right-back or wing-back, which would give Carrick cover across several systems.
United have lacked that reliability.
Noussair Mazraoui’s availability has been inconsistent, while Diogo Dalot’s future remains uncertain. Patrick Dorgu offers pace and attacking threat on the left, but he has not yet established himself as a complete Premier League full-back.
Williams would raise the minimum level of United’s defensive options.
He registered two goals and three assists in the Premier League last season while completing more than 3,200 minutes. His average FotMob rating of 7.08 reflected a campaign built on regular starts and two-way contribution.
Forest supporters subsequently voted him their 2025/26 Player of the Season, recognition of his consistency across the campaign.
Williams is not an elite attacking full-back or an imposing defensive specialist. His appeal comes from being dependable in both areas.
Carrick still appears to want a specialist left-back
United’s interest in Williams should be viewed alongside their pursuit of Lewis Hall.
ReadManUtd has already examined how Carrick’s Lewis Hall plan reflects United’s long-term left-back priority. Hall offers greater long-term upside and would arrive with a clearer route towards becoming first choice.
Williams would provide a different solution.
At 25, he is entering his peak years and would not require the same development period. He could compete immediately on both sides without Carrick having to build the position around him.
That versatility is useful, although United must avoid repeating an old recruitment habit. The squad has often been filled with players capable of covering several roles without truly owning one.
Williams would strengthen the group. It is less certain whether he would settle the left-back position for several seasons.
ReadManUtd’s latest transfer briefing confirmed that Williams remains part of Carrick’s wider full-back planning, with Newcastle also monitoring developments.
Forest hold the strongest negotiating position
United cannot approach this deal expecting a reduced price.
Forest paid up to £17m to sign Williams from Liverpool and secured his future until 2029 with a new contract last summer. The club’s official announcement confirmed that four-year commitment, leaving no contractual pressure to sell.
Williams’ Player of the Season award has only increased his importance and value.
Reports suggest United and Newcastle have registered interest while Forest attempt to agree another improved package with the defender. No firm valuation or club-to-club approach has yet emerged.
The eventual price should determine how seriously United proceed.
Williams would make sense at a reasonable Premier League fee. He is experienced, durable and capable of covering two positions without a major drop in quality.
A price approaching the figures discussed for Hall would change the calculation. Hall is younger and has a stronger claim to become Carrick’s long-term first-choice left-back.
United’s interest is still logical. Williams would reduce risk across the defence and provide reliable competition from the beginning of the season.
Whether he is the right signing will depend on Forest’s demands and whether Carrick wants a versatile squad defender or a specialist capable of defining the position.
