Nottingham Forest identify Liverpool ace as possible Djed Spence replacement

Nottingham Forest have been linked with a move for Liverpool ace Neco Williams.

The Reds are still hopeful of signing Djed Spence on a permanent deal after his impressive loan season with Forest last term, but Steve Cooper's recruitment staff are covering all bases by identifying possible alternatives.

One such possible option is Williams, 21, who spent last season on-loan with Championship title winners Fulham.

Striking a deal for Middlesbrough's Djed Spence appears to be moving slightly further away after reports today (June 10) claimed Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a £20m fee for the wing-back; Forest fans remain hopeful of securing the talented England international's services, however, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano contradicting the earlier claim by saying Spurs have a strong interest but have yet to complete a deal.

According to 90min, though, Cooper's recruitment staff have identified Williams as an alternative option to pursue in case they fail to sign Spence. The 21-year-old right-back is contracted to Liverpool until 2025 but spent the second half of last season on-loan with Fulham as they claimed the Championship title.

Williams, who partners Brennan Johnson in the Wales national squad, spoke earlier in the year about his intentions to return to Liverpool in the summer for pre-season as well as a willingness to head out on loan again in pursuit of regular playing opportunities.

“Right now, I just want to play football week in and week out,” Williams said. “I want to play as much as possible and gain as much experience as possible, and so far it has definitely helped me. I’ve improved as a player and getting promoted is a nice one to put on the CV. It’s been a great loan, but I’ll be going back to