Rio Ferdinand has given his backing to Manchester United's potential pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, describing the 23-year-old as a player who 'ticks the boxes' for the club. United are prioritising a new central midfielder this summer, with Casemiro set to leave at the end of his contract.
Speaking about the club's transfer targets, Ferdinand highlighted Anderson as the current front-runner ahead of alternatives such as Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Newcastle duo Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes. 'Elliot Anderson seems to have jumped to the front of the queue,' Ferdinand said. 'He's a wonderful player. I think he's the right type not only of player but character.'
The former United defender emphasised the qualities United need in midfield. 'The type of midfielder United need is somebody who is more all-action, who can cover ground, who is dynamic, robust, strong, and can drive a team. Right now Anderson seems to be ticking those boxes.'
Anderson joined Forest from Newcastle in summer 2024 and has made 82 appearances for the club. He is under contract until 2029, and reports suggest Forest would demand around £80m for his sale—a fee United have reportedly accepted they must pay to secure one of their top targets.
When asked about his future earlier this season, Anderson remained focused on his current club. 'I'm just focusing on my football at the moment and performing and trying to give everything for Nottingham Forest,' he said. 'That's all that's on my mind.'
