Fitting an intercooler

Hi im currently fitting a universal intercooler to my defender 300tdi. Either the rad will have to go back an inch or front will have to come forward has anyone got any advice tips or have done similar cheers rob.

To be perfectly honest the easiest option is to fit one designed for the vehicle, there are plenty of bespoke ones available.
Anything can be made to fit depending on your ingenuity and ability but it sounds like work for works sake when the correct replacement will slot straight in or will come with specific instructions.
Moving the rad seems a little drastic for something as simple as an intercooler upgrade, have you looked at using an aircon front panel?

That was a suggestion think it will be that way

Air con front panel would probably allow enough room for fitment and would be the way I would go.