Over the weekend, Nottingham Forest reportedly rejected a formal offer from Europa League champions Atalanta for Neco Williams.
According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Tricky Trees felt La Dea’s opening proposal of around €20 million unsatisfactory.
Atalanta is struggling to find success against clubs from the United Kingdom. After Celtic rejected up to four bids for Matt O’Riley, Nottingham Forest turned down a rather costly offer for the 23-year-old Welshman. In their defense, he was vital to Nuno Espirito Santo’s team last season.
Following an injury-plagued start to the season, Williams established himself as a key first-team player, making 26 Premier League matches. He also has two years remaining on his contract at the City Ground. However, given his very mediocre output, it’s fair to say Forest overpaid for the Atalanta target.
Indeed, Williams had only one assist in 32 competitive games in 2023/24. That is hardly a convincing figure for an attacking-minded full-back worth more than €20 million. It could possibly be the reason why Atalanta is looking into another promising market potential.
According to Romano, Atalanta has begun talks with Brazilian giants Flamengo over Wesley Franca, who is 20 years old. The Brazilian youngster would command a much lower sum than Williams. And it’s difficult to say whether he has less potential, given that he’s been part of the senior team since 2021.
Anyway, these methods indicate that Atalanta wants to replace Davide Zappacosta. Or at least take some of the strain off the veteran, who was outstanding last season.
