Report: Premier League rivals frontrunners to sign £80 million Man United target
by Ahad Shaukat · CaughtOffside(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
The race to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson is intensifying as the summer transfer window of 2026 approaches, with Manchester City reportedly moving ahead of Manchester United in pursuit of the highly rated England international.
Anderson has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most in-demand midfielders, attracting attention not only from England’s top clubs but also from European heavyweights, according to BBC.
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Reports suggest that while Man United remain deeply interested in the 23-year-old, Man City’s early groundwork and recruitment planning may have given them an advantage in what is shaping up to be a major transfer battle.
Anderson has been a huge hit at Nottingham Forest
Since joining Nottingham Forest permanently following his breakthrough years earlier in his career, the midfielder has evolved into a dynamic and influential presence in the heart of midfield.
Anderson has become a key figure for Forest, contributing both defensively and offensively. His performances have earned him recognition at the international level, with recent appearances for England further boosting his reputation.
He is expected to be a part of the England World Cup squad this year and there is a high chance that he starts for them in the midfield alongside Declan Rice.
Despite Nottingham Forest facing challenging periods during the campaign, Anderson’s consistency has not gone unnoticed.
His ability to operate as a box-to-box midfielder, press aggressively, and support attacking transitions has made him an attractive option for teams seeking midfield renewal.
Man City and Man United compete for midfield additions
Man City are looking to make midfield additions after struggling this season. The form of Rodri has been inconsistent and there is a chance that Man City are targeting a replacement for the legendary Spaniard.
City’s midfield system demands versatility and composure, and Anderson’s playing style fits the profile of a player capable of thriving in possession-heavy systems.
On the other hand, the need for a midfielder at Man United is clear. With Casemiro leaving the club at the end of the season and Manuel Ugarte still struggling, they are trying to find solutions in the market.
The club has been linked with several names, including Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali, but internal discussions reportedly suggest Anderson is among the priority targets.
Nottingham Forest are believed to value Anderson at no less than £80 million, reflecting both his importance to the club and the premium placed on homegrown talent in the modern market.
Competition is also emerging from abroad, with Bayern Munich among the clubs monitoring his progress. The German giants have a strong history of recruiting talented midfielders from the Premier League and could enter negotiations if the opportunity arises.
Man United midfield target more than happy at Premier League club
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