Liverpool have had major issues at right-back this season, while former defender Neco Williams is thriving at Nottingham Forest.
Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and even Wataru Endo have been used out of position at full-back this season, while summer signing Jeremie Frimpong seems more suited to an attacking role.
But as Liverpool face another summer of trying to find a solid replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, ex-defender Williams is a man in demand amid a potentially uncertain future at the City Ground.
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Manchester United and Everton eye Neco Williams from Nottingham Forest
Williams began his senior career at Anfield but struggled to earn consistent minutes alongside Trent.
He only made 33 appearances for the Reds in all competitions and was primarily used as cover when injury and fitness issues arose.
In turn, after a loan spell with Fulham, Williams joined Forest in July 2022 for a fee of £12m, and has since made 158 appearances for the Midlands club.
The 25-year-old has four goals and nine assists in said outings, and his upturn in performances has put a number of Premier League clubs on alert.
According to the BBC, all of Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester United and Everton are said to have made ‘discreet enquiries’ for the former Liverpool full-back.
Forest, for their part, are trying to get Williams to stay and have begun contract extension talks with the player, whose current deal expires in 2029.
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What Neco Williams said about leaving Liverpool
Letting Williams go will now probably be viewed by some fans as a mistake.
But given the lack of game time he was getting at a crucial stage of his development, it is easy to see why the Welshman wanted to move on.
Williams opened up on his exit in a social media post back in July 2022. He stated: “15 years at this special club, thank you for everything Liverpool.
“It’s been an honour to play for this club and to play under Jurgen Klopp. But I’ve now decided to take up a new challenge. I wish all the team and the staff the best of luck for the future and will always continue to support the club. Thank you and never forget YNWA!!!”
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