Manchester United and Newcastle United could be set to go head-to-head in a transfer battle for a Premier League full-back, formerly of Liverpool.
Manchester United are known to be after central midfielders this summer. Director of Football Jason Wilcox and Director of Recruitment Christopher Vivell have been handed the difficult task of replacing five-time Champions League winner Casemiro. And it does not appear to be going to plan.
Their original top target, Elliot Anderson, moved to Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for a reported fee of £116 million. Mateus Fernandes - another player at the top of United's radar - moved to Tottenham Hotspur for £85 million, immediately followed by Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United.
In June, United agreed a deal with Atalanta to sign Brazilian midfielder Éderson. It looked set to be completed that month, but a late World Cup call-up delayed matters until after the competition.
Brazil have already exited the tournament, but a deal has not yet been finalised, causing quite a stir amongst the fan base, which Fabrizio Romano added to by claiming the deal was off on Friday evening.
On a more positive note for Manchester United, Chelsea's Andrey Santos has finalised a move to Old Trafford, and Roundtable understands he has already met with Michael Carrick.
United need more than just midfielders, though. Fans of the club are crying out for another addition on the left flank - either in defence or in attack - with Patrick Dorgu likely to cover the other role.
United eye former Liverpool full-back
BBC Sport have reported that Manchester United and Newcastle United are interested in Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams.
The Welshman is in contract talks to remain at Forest, but several Premier League sides are said to be interested in Williams.
The 25-year-old moved to the City Ground in June 2022 from Liverpool for £12 million and has impressed since. His versatility has been key to his success at Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest are said to be confident that they will keep Williams at the club next season. They are in a strong position, given how much money they have already raised this summer.
The full-back has three years remaining on his current contract, but Forest would like to reward him with a new deal after his impressive form last term.
Is Williams the right man for United?
Neco Williams has impressed many since leaving Liverpool in 2022. His versatility, combined with his defensive assurance, makes him a solid Premier League defender. But United need better than that.
Michael Carrick's side should be targeting players who raise the standard of the squad. If Williams joined, there are no guarantees he would be a starter.
And then there is the question of which side would he play on? On the left, Williams does not displace Luke Shaw and better left-backs (Lewis Hall) are on the market. On the right, United already have Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui.
If Williams is available on a cut-price deal, then it makes sense. But if Nottingham Forest use similar tactics from the Elliot Anderson transfer, United will have to walk away.
