Tottenham are targeting a Premier League-experienced right-back after Nottingham Forest rejected their approach for Neco Williams.
Tottenham Hotspur are open to securing a new right-back to replace Djed Spence before the summer transfer window closes. According to a report from BBC journalist Sami Mokbel, shared by The Spurs Express on X, head coach Roberto De Zerbi has expressed a clear preference for bringing in a full-back with established Premier League experience. In line with this strategy, Spurs explored a potential move for Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams, though Forest have firmly rejected any prospect of selling the Welsh international.
The decision to consider a replacement for Spence highlights De Zerbi’s determination to build a reliable, tactics-ready squad for the grueling Premier League campaign. De Zerbi’s tactical system places demanding technical and physical responsibilities on full-backs, requiring them to invert into central midfield, handle high-volume pressing, and maintain strict positional discipline.
While Spence possesses remarkable physical attributes and athletic recovery speed, De Zerbi’s preference for proven top-flight experience suggests a desire for greater tactical consistency and immediate reliability on the right flank. Securing a defender already accustomed to the pace and intensity of English football would allow Tottenham to integrate a secondary right-back seamlessly into matchday rotations without an extended adaptation period.
Nottingham Forest Block Approach for Neco Williams
In their pursuit of Premier League-proven options, Tottenham identified Nottingham Forest’s Neco Williams as a prime candidate. The Welsh international has established himself as a versatile, energetic full-back capable of operating on either flank with a high work rate and strong crossing ability.
However, Tottenham’s preliminary enquiry was quickly shut down by Nottingham Forest, who consider Williams a crucial pillar of their defensive setup and have no intention of sanctioning a sale. With Forest standing firm against interest from North London, Spurs decision-makers must now turn their attention to alternative targets who satisfy De Zerbi’s criteria before the transfer window shuts.
🥇🚨| #Tottenham are open to signing a replacement for Djed Spence, it is understood De Zerbi would prefer one with Premier League experience.#Spurs have explored a move for Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams, but Forest do not want to sell. @SamiMokbel_BBC pic.twitter.com/G0T8mV0CXN
— The Spurs Express (@TheSpursExpress) August 25, 2026
The search for full-back reinforcements comes at a pivotal moment in Tottenham’s late-window recruitment drive. Following a difficult 3-0 opening day defeat against Brentford, Spurs officials have been working tirelessly across multiple positions to provide De Zerbi with a deep, balanced squad capable of executing his demanding football philosophy.
With time ticking down before the transfer deadline, finding a suitable right-back with Premier League experience who is readily available on reasonable market terms will test Tottenham’s recruitment team. If Spence departs N17, Spurs must act swiftly to ensure Pedro Porro is supported by a capable alternative ready to contribute immediately in domestic and cup competitions.