Everton has quietly inquired about Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams this summer, joining several Premier League teams interested in the Welsh defender. Nonetheless, Keith Wyness, the club’s former chief executive, shared his insights on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, casting doubt on Everton’s intentions to aggressively pursue him. Wyness expressed skepticism regarding Williams’ potential to significantly impact the squad’s quality or trajectory.
Everton Lacks Momentum in the Williams Pursuit, Former CEO States
Nottingham Forest has responded to the increasing interest by initiating discussions with Williams about a new contract, despite the 25-year-old being tied to the City Ground until June 2029. Williams concluded the 2025-26 season with two goals and three assists in 35 Premier League matches, providing consistent contributions without making headlines.
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He captained Forest for the first time last weekend and was part of the squad that faced elimination by Aston Villa in the Europa League semi-finals. Alongside Everton, clubs like Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Newcastle United have all shown interest in the Welshman, making the competition intense. Wyness pointed out that while observing a player is cost-free, the club’s primary focus lies elsewhere, and he views Williams as unlikely to offer a meaningful 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 someone I believe will dramatically enhance the squad. While he does possess talent and pace, I don’t foresee that transfer happening.”
Does Williams Fit Under Moyes’ Vision at Everton?
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – MAY 10: Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal alongside teammates Neco Williams and Nikola Milenkovic during the Premier League match against Newcastle United at City Ground on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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While I think Williams could fit, it’s not a convincing match. Being predominantly right-footed and playing at left-back, he faces challenges in tight situations, noted by his 0.80 fouls per 90 minutes this season, which resulted in seven yellow cards and one red card over 35 appearances—a sign of a player who resorts to physical play when out of position. His crossing accuracy of 20.1% is also revealing; he gets into good positions but struggles to convert them.
David Moyes usually emphasizes defensive structure and positional discipline. Jake O’Brien has been performing at right-back, averaging 1.6 tackles, 3.1 ball recoveries, and four clearances per game, which are characteristics of the dependable, low-risk profile that Moyes typically values. Although Williams offers additional pace and attacking ambition, Everton’s system does not reward those qualities the same way a more aggressive team would.
Everton aims to enhance their full-back options this summer, with the Friedkin Group supporting David Moyes in the transfer market, independent of European qualification. This suggests they require a true upgrade rather than a lateral move, and at his current level, Williams seems to fall into the latter category. Wyness is correct—Everton should continue their search.