Nottingham Forest have already got their Neco Williams successor, he's a real gem
Nottingham Forest starlet Jamie Newton looks primed to be Neco Williams' long-term successor at left wing-back amid rumours around his future.
Williams was closely linked away from Forest in the summer as several Premier League clubs registered an interest in his services.
Some consistently strong performances last season saw the 25-year-old win the Reds' Player of the Season award, and he signed a new contract extension at the start of this month to dispel rumours of an exit.
Despite that agreement, new reports have raised doubts around Williams' future at the City Ground under Oliver Glasner.
Forest fans will be worried about him leaving at some point soon, but the stats show that Newton could make the step up to the first team if he does depart.
He could emerge as a genuine option for Glasner in the coming months after impressing for the under-21s in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday.
Jamie Newton's strong showing proves that he could succeed Neco Williams
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that those at Forest are concerned about Williams' start to the campaign following his contract extension.
The Wales star has been a mainstay at wing-back in Glasner's side, but Forest have won just one of their first six across league and cup games so far.
He could look to leave the club soon amid continued interest from a host of top clubs, with youth star Newton seemingly ready to make the step up this season.
The former Rangers academy kid impressed at left wing-back as Forest's youth side beat Burton Albion in the EFL Trophy on Wednesday.
He created one chance and one big chance for his teammates, made the second-most defensive contributions (12) of any player on the pitch, five passes into the final third and won two fouls.
He also won nine of 10 attempted duels, the most of any player, and won his one attempted aerial duel on a successful night at the Pirelli Stadium.
Newton is clearly ready for senior football after impressing against EFL opposition, and should be handed a chance by Glasner amid ongoing uncertainty over Williams' future.
Which clubs could try to sign Williams?
Williams was linked to Man United in the summer window, and they could revisit a move for his services in January as a result of Forest's concerns.
The Red Devils failed to bolster Michael Carrick's depth in the position over the summer, so another attempt to seal the Wales star's signature could well be something they consider.
Sources revealed to Football Insider in the last window that Tottenham were keen on Williams as Roberto De Zerbi eyed more additions to his backline.
They have struggled at the back so far in this campaign, with Williams potentially on their radar once again in January if their issues continue.