Everton has made discreet enquiries about Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams this summer, joining several Premier League clubs in monitoring the Welsh defender. However, the club’s former chief executive, Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, dampened expectations regarding a potential move, stating that he does not see Williams as a player who would significantly enhance the squad’s quality or direction.
Everton not leading the race for Williams, says former CEO
Nottingham Forest has responded to the increased interest by initiating discussions with Williams about a new contract, despite the 25-year-old being under contract at the City Ground until June 2029. Williams ended the 2025–26 season with two goals and three assists in 35 Premier League appearances, contributing solidly without drawing much attention.
He captained Forest for the first time last weekend and was part of the squad that faced elimination at the hands of Aston Villa in the Europa League semi-finals. Alongside Everton, Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Newcastle United have all expressed interest in the Welshman, making the competition quite intense. Wyness noted that while monitoring a player incurs no costs, the club’s actual focus remains on other priority targets and he believes Williams would not provide a significant upgrade.
“I don’t see Neco being a game changer for the squad. Monitoring him is one thing. I don’t think he’ll be the one that Everton get, but he’s not one that I think is going to dramatically change the squad. While he’s obviously a talented, quick player as well, I don’t see that one happening.”
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