Elliot Anderson is set to leave Nottingham Forest this summer, with Manchester City and Manchester United both still in the race for the midfielder, who is preparing to make a club-record transfer.
Man Utd's Strategy Could Cost City
Manchester United are set to remain in the race to sign Elliot Anderson, which could mean his likely move to Manchester City sets them back a club-record fee. Discussions between City and Nottingham Forest have been productive, and Anderson could move to the Etihad for a fee in excess of £100 million, eclipsing the club-record amount they paid to sign Jack Grealish in 2021.
Anderson will appear for England at this summer's World Cup and has been tipped for a major move after continuing to impress at the City Ground. His preference is a move to City, despite the club embarking on a new era with Pep Guardiola no longer on board.
United's Interest Despite Being Second Choice
United too have him on their shortlist as they look to bolster their own midfield, but accept they are the player's second choice and could face a public snub. However, they will not withdraw their interest as Forest could ultimately land a higher fee from City if they drag out negotiations with their rivals still in play. City recently saw an opening offer for Anderson rejected, whilst United have not yet come to the party with a bid of their own.
United have previously been among those linked for midfielders who would join rival clubs for record fees. Three years ago they were credited with interest in Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo, but never made an offer. Rice signed for Arsenal for £105 million and Caicedo headed to Chelsea for £115 million.
United's Midfield Plans
United have shortlisted a number of alternatives, several of whom are in the Premier League, including Sandro Tonali and Carlos Baleba. They have already agreed a £35 million deal to buy Brazil international Ederson from Atalanta but want to add more than one face in the middle of the pitch.
City want to add to their midfield, hence their pursuit of Anderson, as Rodri is out of contract next year and continually being linked with a move back to Spain.
World Cup Not a Hindrance
Anderson's involvement at the World Cup will not hold up any move, with England boss Thomas Tuchel confessing he won't stop any transfers from taking place. Tuchel said: "If it is quietly done, privately done, done efficiently, we are always happy to help to have clarity around the player. I think the best we can have is clarity. If anyone has the chance to complete a change of club and a transfer, we will not stand in the way but it has to align of course with our schedule."
