Liverpool starlet Neco Williams has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Nottingham Forest as summer exit draws closer.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool full-back Neco Williams might be a step closer to exiting Anfield this summer after agreeing to personal terms with newly-promoted Premier League club Nottingham Forest.
The Tricky Trees returned to the top flight for the first time this century following a 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town in the Championship playoffs final. While a Premier League campaign is something to look forward to, Nottingham Forest will need to reinforce the squad in the summer to stay competitive.
One of the positions that need reinforcing is at right-back. Middlesbrough loanee Djed Spence played a key role for the club last season but has returned to the Riverside Stadium. With Tottenham Hotspur keen to land him, the Premier League new boys will need to look elsewhere to fill the void.
One player who has been linked is Williams, who proved his worth while on loan at Fulham last season. A full Welsh international, the Liverpool defender has experience of playing in the Premier League and has served as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s understudy at Anfield.
Now 21, he is far from a first-team player and has little chance of usurping Alexander-Arnold in Jurgen Klopp’s first XI. A move to Nottingham Forest could give Williams the platform needed to not just experience regular playtime but also continue his development. While playing for Liverpool is a dream, there is little to be gained if he has to largely sit on the bench.
The youngster has already agreed to personal terms, and a lot could depend on whether both clubs can agree on a transfer fee. Forest have so far made a bid of £12 million for Williams, a figure that is short of Liverpool’s £15 million valuation. Despite the difference, Williams appears keen on a move, and much could depend on how talks proceed in the coming weeks.
A move to Nottingham Forest will also reunite Williams with former Liverpool academy head Steve Cooper. The 42-year-old has an excellent track record of developing young players and is keen on taking Williams under his wing. While moving to Nottingham Forest is a step-down from Liverpool, it could be just what Williams needs to rekindle his career.
The Reds have already signed Scottish wonderkid Calvin Ramsey. The 19-year-old will serve as Alexander-Arnold’s understudy next season meaning Williams is at best, Liverpool’s third-choice right-back. Agreeing to a deal that will take him to the City Ground could be a win-win for all parties.
