A report by TEAMtalk has claimed that Manchester United “officials” are “working hard to persuade” Elliot Anderson that “Old Trafford represents the ideal next step” in his career. The Red Devils are ramping up their efforts to sign the 23-year-old Nottingham Forest midfielder as they attempt to reinforce their midfield unit in the summer transfer window.
However, Manchester United’s task will not be straightforward, as widespread reports and the latest update have revealed that the Englishman currently prefers joining Manchester City. Meanwhile, the decision-makers at Nottingham Forest “expect Anderson to move to one of the two Manchester giants” in the coming months.
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 has not looked back, despite his disappointing departure from St. James’ Park due to PSR issues, and has gone from strength to strength at Nottingham Forest over the last two seasons.
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 setting their sights on him. Manchester City and Manchester United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Manchester United’s interest in Elliot Anderson makes sense. The Red Devils are scouring 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 has become a top target for Manchester United.
As for Manchester City, Rodri’s long-term future is uncertain amid his growing links with Real Madrid. Additionally, the Spanish international has struggled with fitness issues in the last 18 months, and those problems have impacted his performance. So, Manchester City must dip into the market for a holding midfielder, with Anderson being an option worth considering.
However, Anderson’s preference to join Manchester City has prompted Manchester United to intensify up the efforts to sign the 23-year-old Englishman. With the Red Devils working towards turning the Nottingham Forest midfielder’s head, an intense battle for his signature is on the cards.
