United's left‑back dilemma meets Neco Williams' Forest consistency

Manchester United grapple with a persistent left‑back vacancy after Luke Shaw’s recurring injuries, while Neco Williams enjoys a season of regular football at Nottingham Forest. United see the 25‑year‑old former Liverpool winger as a potential remedy to their defensive shortage.

United have signalled strong interest in signing Williams, who rose through the Reds’ youth system and made 33 senior appearances for Liverpool before joining Nottingham Forest. He is currently on the books of the Tricky Trees, adding depth to their squad.

Williams progressed through the Reds’ academy before moving to Nottingham Forest in 2022. Since then he has amassed 160 first‑team appearances and scored four goals for the Tricky Trees.

In the 2025‑26 Premier League campaign he featured in 53 matches across all competitions, delivering six direct goal contributions. His consistency has kept him a key figure for the Forest side.

Man Utd view Williams as a solution to their left‑back vacancy, aggravated by Luke Shaw’s persistent injury problems. The club also identified Lewis Hall as a primary target, but Newcastle United’s interest adds pressure to secure the winger. The race for Hall underscores United’s broader recruitment drive.

Nottingham Forest are reluctant to lose the 25‑year‑old, with three years remaining on his contract at the City Ground. The club intends to tie him down with an improved deal to retain a vital Premier League player.

The outcome will shape both teams’ plans for the upcoming season, with United aiming to bolster their defence and Forest fighting to keep a key squad member. Both clubs will assess their options as the transfer window approaches.