Leeds United now have just two weeks to complete any transfer business they wish to do.
The Whites have a few positions that could do with strengthening, with both full-back positions an area of concern and a new centre-back needed if Charlie Cresswell leaves. Another creative attacker would also give the squad some serious depth.
At this stage, it would appear that right-back is the main focus for Leeds. The majority of the targets linked this month are in that position, with Connor Roberts, Ben Johnson and Neco Williams all linked.
Nottingham Forest’s Williams is a player they have liked for a long time and even wanted him in the summer before bringing Spence to Elland Road.
However, according to the Athletic, despite Leeds’ interest, Forest are now ‘explicit’ in their stance that Williams will not be offloaded before the end of the window, with Nuno Espirito Santo keen to keep him.
Forest won’t let Leeds target Williams leave
Had Steve Cooper still been in charge at the City Ground, Leeds may have had a chance of signing him on loan, as back in November it was reported they were willing to let him go.
However, Williams has featured in all four matches under Nuno since his appointment, with the former Wolves boss seeing him as a key part of his plans going forward.
Forest currently have three first team right-backs on their books, but with Gonzalo Montiel first choice, it is actually Serge Aurier who they are looking to offload before the end of the window.
It has already been reported that Leeds will struggle to do a deal for Williams but these latest updates just make it seem impossible, unless Forest have a late change of heart.
Leeds are willing to be patient this month in order to secure their top targets but it may be wise for them to move away from Williams, and instead seriously pursue with Johnson or Roberts.
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