Man Utd Learn Transfer Target Could Become Available Under One Condition

Manchester United could have a potential opportunity to pursue Neco Williams if Nottingham Forest decide to sign a specialist left wing-back to improve their defensive balance.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, Forest legend Des Walker has urged the club to consider recruiting a natural left-footer, raising questions about Williams’ suitability for the role under manager Oliver Glasner.

Williams, who joined Forest from Liverpool for €20 million (£17 million) in July 2022, enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 campaign and was named the club’s Player of the Season ahead of Elliot Anderson and Morgan Gibbs-White.

The Wales international has also attracted interest from Manchester United, with BBC Sport previously reporting that the Old Trafford club admire the 25-year-old.

However, Forest’s switch to a three-man defence under Glasner has created a different tactical challenge, with wing-backs expected to provide width and attacking support from the flanks.

Walker believes a left-footed player could offer greater balance in that system.

“I would, 100 per cent,” he told GOAL via Live Football Tickets when asked whether Forest should recruit a specialist left wing-back.

“I like having a left-footer there because of the way it opens the pitch up.

“If a right-footed player on the left checks back onto his right foot, the opposition can close him down and effectively cut off a third of the pitch.”

Walker also explained why the demands of playing as a wing-back differ from those of operating as a conventional full-back.

“Playing wing-back in a back three is slightly different, though, because you’re starting much wider.

“Sometimes you need that quality from a natural left foot when you’re almost standing on the touchline.”

Williams has recorded four goals and 10 assists in 167 appearances for Forest. He also signed a contract extension in September that keeps him at the City Ground until 2030.

Any decision to recruit another wing-back, however, would not automatically mean Forest were prepared to sell the Welshman. His contract situation and importance to the squad could complicate any potential transfer.

Manchester United failed to strengthen at left-back during the summer window despite reportedly targeting Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, whose valuation was said to be around €59 million (£50 million).

United spent €173.2 million (£148.8 million) during the transfer window, bringing in midfielders Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos but leaving the left-back position without a new addition.

The club’s recruitment strategy has since come under scrutiny following their 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, after which Lisandro Martinez publicly called for greater support from the hierarchy.

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