Manchester United and Manchester City have been keen on signing 23-year-old English international Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest this summer.
According to a report by the Daily Mirror, Manchester City and Manchester United are interested in 23-year-old Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The two Premier League heavyweights are eager to bolster their first-team squads by signing a holding midfielder in the coming months.
However, the latest report has brought bad news for Manchester United, as the Englishman would prefer to join Manchester City in the upcoming transfer window. Additionally, the Citizens are rising in confidence, and they “believe they have won the race” ahead of the 2026/27 season.
How has Elliot Anderson become a household name?
Elliot Anderson has established himself as one of the best players in the Premier League since joining Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in a deal worth £35 million in July 2024. The 23-year-old graduated from Newcastle United’s budding academy, but he could not establish a foothold in the first-team squad at St. James’ Park due to the club’s well-documented PSR issues.
Anderson has made nearly 100 appearances for Nottingham Forest thus far while chipping in with four goals and nine assists. The English midfielder’s stock has skyrocketed in the last two years, with several high-profile clubs vying for his services this year. Manchester City and Manchester United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Manchester United’s interest in Elliot Anderson is understandable. The Red Devils are combing the market for a holding midfielder, as Casemiro will depart from Old Trafford as a free agent after the 2025/26 season. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte has been a liability since joining Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain nearly two years ago. So, Anderson is a viable target for Manchester United.
As for Manchester City, Rodri’s long-term future is uncertain amid his links with Real Madrid. Additionally, the Spanish international has struggled with fitness issues in the last 18 months. So, Manchester City must implement a succession plan for the Spaniard, with Anderson being an option worth considering.
However, Anderson’s preference to join Manchester City will force Manchester United to look elsewhere, and they must move quickly to turn another midfielder’s head as they prepare for Casemiro’s impending exit. As for the 23-year-old Englishman, a summer move to the Etihad is on the cards.