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Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams is reportedly interested in a transfer to Manchester United and hopes to play under manager Michael Carrick — a move that could indirectly benefit his former club, Liverpool.

On July 9, BBC Sport revealed that Manchester United are targeting Williams from Nottingham Forest during the ongoing summer transfer window.

The report indicated that Manchester United had ‘registered interest’ in the Welsh defender, who is currently engaged in discussions with Forest over a new contract.

Newcastle United have also been linked with the former Liverpool player, who has largely operated as a left-back for Forest over the past two seasons, though he has also featured on the right flank when required.

The report added that Forest remain optimistic about retaining Williams, expressing confidence that he will agree to extend his stay at the City Ground.

According to an update from TEAMtalk, the reliable transfer news outlet has claimed that the former Liverpool man is now prepared to make the switch to Manchester United this summer.

Alongside Manchester United and Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to have shown an interest in the Wales international defender.

The report stated: “Sources close to the player have mentioned that a move to Manchester United would particularly appeal to Williams, despite his long-standing association with Liverpool after progressing through their academy.”

It further added: “The 25-year-old is understood to be keen on a transfer amid interest from two Premier League clubs, although no official approaches have yet been made.”

TEAMtalk also reported that Williams is “open to challenging himself at a bigger club, particularly Manchester United.”

However, Forest are eager to keep Williams and are engaged in negotiations with the former Liverpool full-back regarding a new deal that includes a pay rise.

Manchester United have already completed the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea, with co-owners INEOS approving a £50 million move for the Brazilian midfielder.

The Premier League giants have also triggered the £35 million release clause in Youri Tielemans’s contract at Aston Villa.

Williams progressed through Liverpool’s youth system and eventually broke into the senior squad.

The 25-year-old made 33 appearances for Liverpool’s first team, scoring six goals during his time at Anfield.

Liverpool sold Williams to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2022, with transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reporting at the time that the Reds had included a sell-on clause in the contract.

Romano wrote on X on July 11, 2022, at 9:56 a.m.: “Neco Williams has completed his medicals and signed as a new Nottingham Forest player. The total fee will be £17.5 million, add-ons included. Liverpool will also retain a 15% sell-on clause.”

Williams remains under contract with Forest until the summer of 2029, which means the club will be in a strong position to demand a significant transfer fee if Manchester United decide to pursue the deal.