Nottingham Forest set to offer Neco Williams bumper new contract to fend off Newcastle & Tottenham

Newcastle United are keen on a move for Nottingham Forest star Neco Williams, who are keen to keep hold of the Wales international amid growing interest.

It is no surprise the Tricky Trees are eager to retain Williams, as he was one of their most important players last season, making 53 appearances in all competitions, as they went on to reach the Europa League semi-final.

In the early stages of the campaign, commentator Jamie Martin made it clear just how impressed he’s been by the full-back’s development, saying: “Do want to give Neco Williams some praise; underlapping runs to support CHO, then incredible tracking back actions, fantastic. Works so hard. He’s come a long way, all testament to his work rate.”

The Welshman displayed his attacking qualities by picking up two goals and three assists in the Premier League, where he predominantly featured as a left-back, although he is also comfortable playing on the right.

Newcastle may need to sign a new left-back this summer, with Matt Targett joining newly-promoted Hull City, and there are signs the Forest defender could be capable of pushing for Lewis Hall’s starting spot.

With the 25-year-old outperforming Hall across a number of key metrics, a number of Premier League sides could now be set to battle it out for his signature.

Newcastle join the race to sign Neco Williams

According to a report from Football Insider, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Williams, as they are fond of his ability to play on both sides of the defence.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are also in the picture to sign the Wales international, but Forest are scrambling to keep hold of him, entering negotiations to hand him a bumper a new contract.

Given his versatility, the former Liverpool man could also be capable of challenging for Tino Livramento’s place at right-back, with a replacement still needed for Kieran Trippier, who has signed for Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Newcastle also ramping up pursuit of Johan Manzambi alternative

Following the departure of Sandro Tonali, it will also be important for Eddie Howe’s side to bring in a new central midfielder this summer, but they have missed out on Johan Manzambi, who has signed for Aston Villa.

The Magpies have already submitted a bid for Tottenham Hotspur’s Lucas Bergvall, which was knocked back, but they could be set to make an improved offer for the Sweden international, who has been valued at around £50m.

Of course, Williams’ versatility would make him a solid option for Howe, but it could be more crucial to sign a new midfielder, with Guimaraes’ future also in doubt, and at just 20-years-old, Bergvall could be an exciting long-term addition to the squad.