Manchester City believe they will sign Elliot Anderson

The race for Elliot Anderson has been a long one, with Manchester United and their rivals pursuing the midfielder since the summer.

However, The Mirror has now reported that Manchester City are confident that they’ll land the Nottingham Forest star in the summer.

Despite holding a price-tag of around £100 million previously, with the Tricky Trees trying to ward off suitors, The Citizens believe they can get the deal done for £65 million.

It’s understood that a key part of this drop in figure lies with Anderson himself making it known that his preferred move this summer would be to the Etihad.

However, another huge factor is the risk of relegation for Forest, given they currently sit in 16th place, only two points above West Ham in 18th.

United were one of the first teams to be linked with Elliot Anderson after his breakout 2024/25 campaign, having moved to Nottingham for £35 million in summer 2024 from Newcastle United.

During his debut campaign with the club, he was essential to Forest’s seventh-place finish, and while he only scored two goals and grabbed six assists, his pressure play and progressive dribbles with the ball showed his ability.

This season, he’s stepped up his game even further, currently ranking as the best Premier League midfielder for progressive passes and deep progressions, jumping up from ranked 38th and 42nd last year.

He’s also increased his chances created, from 14 to 22, with his assists decreasing to two, highlighting the issues of the wider team around him.

With Anderson also looking to be a key player for England in the 2026 World Cup this summer, it’s no surprise that elite clubs are watching.

While the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have all been prioritising a move for the star, they may now have to look elsewhere.

What now for Manchester United as Elliot Anderson looks to Manchester City?

Thankfully Manchester United have been aware of City taking the edge in the race, and instead of doubling down on the midfielder, they’re looked at other possibilities.

While they are still keeping an eye on his situation, the Red Devils have turned their focus to Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, advancing talks with the Italy international.

As Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte are both due to be leaving the club this summer, United need more than just one midfield signing however, with at least two on the cards.

Thankfully, United do have options alongside Tonali.

For a long time, The Red Devils have been considering Adam Wharton as a priority alongside Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba, monitoring the trio last summer.

However, talks have also been held with Juventus over a move for Khephren Thuram, however, his lack of Premier League experience makes him more of a risk.

Other Premier League players include Anderson’s teammates Ibrahim Sangare, Morgan Gibbs-White and Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams.

Out of all of them, Tonali seems to be the most likely, however is set to cost United around £70 million, with United set to benefit from Italy failing to qualify for the World Cup.

As such, it’s unclear at this time who United’s second signing will be, but for United fans it’s good to see there are still quality options in the mix.