Elliot Anderson bid rejected by Nottingham Forest

Since last summer, Manchester United have held Elliot Anderson in high regard as one of the main options to rebuild their midfield under the new INEOS project.

While several other names have since joined the shortlist, like Sandro Tonali, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Mateus Fernandes, Anderson has remained as a key target.

The Red Devils have agreed terms with Atalanta to see Ederson join them this summer, but as they were already putting aside £150 million for three midfielders, they aren’t stopping there.

Unfortunately, they aren’t in the driving seat for Elliot Anderson, though, as Manchester City have been frontrunners for some time.

Now, The Citizens have made the first move, tabling a bid to Nottingham Forest, which has ultimately been rejected, according to The Athletic.

At this time, it’s not known what the opening offer was for, however, Forest have been firm on their valuation of over £100 million for some time.

Already United, despite liking the 23-year-old, have made it clear they have no intention of paying the figure Forest want for Anderson, and as such have ruled out a bidding war with City.

For now they are turning their attention to elsewhere, however, even West Ham have lifted their £40 million valuation of Mateus Fernandes to £80 million, despite the club being relegated.

As such, to sign another top-quality striker, United are going to be looking at fees of over £80 million, with Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali attracting the same.

For Elliot Anderson, though, the transfer saga is far from over, with Manchester City unlikely to stop after this rejection.

The 23-year-old’s focuses will be first and foremost on the 2026 World Cup, as he’s set to represent England under Thomas Tuchel.

As such, it’s highly likely that any movement for the midfielder will happen after the tournament, with a strong showing allowing for Forest to lift his valuation even higher.