Newcastle United’s summer rebuild, for now focused mostly on offensive players when it comes to outfield performers, could soon expand to the fullback positions.
Judging by the latest reputable sources reporting on Newcastle’s plans, the club is now monitoring one of Nottingham Forest’s most reliable defenders to strengthen their squad for next season and beyond.
According to BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, Newcastle is among several Premier League clubs interested in Wales international Neco Williams.
“It
is understood Newcastle and Manchester United are among the clubs to have registered interest in Williams while talks over a new contract with Forest continue,” Mokbel reported.
The 25-year-old is currently discussing improved terms at the City Ground after an impressive 2025-26 season, when he scored twice and contributed four assists across all competitions.
For now, everything points to Forest remaining confident that Williams will sign a new deal, but Man Utd and Newcastle’s interest could complicate those negotiations. That said, we’ll see if the leaks of an interest from those two big Premier League spenders are legitimate or just a tactic to get a bigger contract.
Williams still has three years remaining on his current deal, giving Forest a very strong negotiating position if Newcastle decides to make a formal approach.
The defender joined Forest from Liverpool for €8 million in July 2022 and has since made more than 150 appearances for the club. Per Transfermarkt, his value has more than tripled, with a current valuation of €28 million.
Williams’ versatility is likely part of the appeal for Eddie Howe, as he can operate on either side of the defense, something important after Kieran Trippier’s departure and amid continued speculation/injuries around and impacting Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento present and future.
Newcastle has skewed younger this summer in all of their incoming transfer business, bringing in Ewen Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur while agreeing a deal for Johan Manzambi that ultimately got hijacked by Aston Villa.
While Williams would offer a different profile as a proven Premier League player entering his prime, he’s still just 25 years old. He could both provide immediate competition and turn into an important long-term piece of Newcastle’s project.
