Newcastle United are one of four Premier League clubs who have shown interest in signing Nottingham Forest fullback Neco Williams, according to BBC journalist Sami Mokbel.
The former Daily Mail reporter is usually very reliable when it comes to transfer stories, and he claims the Magpies have made “discreet enquiries” about the defender’s availability.
Manchester United, Aston Villa and Everton have also made similar checks, with Forest very aware that Williams is attracting the attention of other teams.
Most Read on Newcastle United News
For that reason, Vitor Pereira’s side are trying to tie down the 55-cap Welsh international to a new contract, despite the fact that his current deal runs until the summer of 2029.
Why are Newcastle interested in the player?
Williams can play on either flank, and manager Eddie Howe may soon need cover in both fullback positions.
Kieran Trippier will leave St James’ Park at the end of the season, but there is also uncertainty surrounding the future of Tino Livramento.
The England international has stalled on signing a new deal, and he has interest from other clubs, including Arsenal. There is a chance he could leave the Magpies, along with Trippier, this summer, so the fact that Williams is on the club’s radar is not that surprising.
Is Williams the only fullback being pursued?
Over the past few months, the likes of Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson and Genoa’s Brooke Norton-Cuffy have been mentioned as potential targets for Newcastle.
It is definitely a position that sporting director Ross Wilson will be looking to strengthen, and it is more than likely that other players will be linked over the coming weeks.
In terms of Williams, it does appear the Magpies would like to bring him in this summer, but Forest seem adamant that he will not be going anywhere.
Want more news on Newcastle? Add Newcastle United News as a preferred source on Google