Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest

Premier League • England

Nottingham Forest see competitive first offer for Neco Williams rejected by Liverpool

Neco Williams Wales June 2022

Liverpool have rejected Nottingham Forest’s first competitive bid for defender Neco Williams, according to reports.

The Wales international has been given the green light to leave Anfield permanently after the arrival of Calvin Ramsey.

Scottish youngster Ramsay is expected to cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold next season after signing from Aberdeen for £6.5m last week. That will allow 21-year-old Williams to move on after last season’s loan with Fulham.

Williams spent the second half of last season at Craven Cottage, helping Fulham to promotion. He made 15 appearances and scored twice, whilst also providing two assists.

Marco Silva said he saw a big improvement in Williams’ performances, but he was wary of talking about a transfer in April.

As reported by West London Sport, Silva said: “It’s too early for us to think about or talk about it. Neco is fully focused in his role at this football club, we are focused on taking the best from him.

“I promised him in January he could come here and fight (for regular football) but the competition would be tough.

“He is improving each game, even in the last game against QPR where he didn’t start the game like we would have wanted him to because of the way they approached the game, he was much better second half.

“His intensity and the way he supported our offensive game has been fantastic and he is a young lad who always gives his best. I am pleased with the way he has adapted at our football club, but talking about his future is too early for us.”

The Premier League new boys Fulham were hopeful of agreeing a deal for Williams. But Liverpool’s price tag appears to be out of their reach and they are now looking elsewhere.

Forest though are keen on the Wales international and have made an offer.

Forest not far away with first Neco Williams bid

The Daily Mail and Daily Express report that Liverpool have rejected the approach. It’s understood Liverpool are looking for £15m for the 21-cap defender.

Forest though are certain to return with another offer with the two clubs not far away in their valuations.

The Nottingham Post claim Forest offered £11m up front, with add-ons of around £4m.

Liverpool reportedly want a bigger chunk of the £15m up front.

Southampton and PSV Eindhoven have also shown an interest in Williams and no doubt Liverpool are trying to get the best price for the youngster.

The Reds have a track record of shrewd sales in the transfer market. Harry Wilson was sold for £12.5m last summer, while Takumi Minamino has departed recently for £13.5m.