Manchester City prepare second bid for Elliot Anderson

Manchester United are continuing to reshape their midfield options ahead of a crucial summer window, with recruitment expected to remain one of the club’s main priorities under Michael Carrick.

The Red Devils are close to finalising a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, while other names such as Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba and Mateus Fernandes remain under consideration as the club looks to strengthen for a return to European football.

However, not every target is moving in United’s direction.

Elliot Anderson, who has been one of the standout midfield performers in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest over the past two seasons, is now edging closer to a high-profile move elsewhere despite long-standing interest from Old Trafford.

Elliot Anderson subject of bid from Manchester City

Manchester City are currently leading the race for the England international and are preparing to submit a fresh official bid to Nottingham Forest, according to Fabrizio Romano, via X.

The proposal follows an earlier rejected offer, with City remaining confident of striking a deal after tracking the midfielder for several months.

United had also been strongly linked with Elliot Anderson, but reports suggest their pursuit has cooled in recent weeks, with internal belief growing that the player may favour a move to the Etihad Stadium if both Manchester clubs pushed for his signature.

City’s optimism remains high, even amid managerial changes, with the club still viewed as frontrunners to secure the 22-year-old’s signature ahead of the summer window opening fully.

Anderson’s rise at Forest has attracted widespread attention, with several top Premier League sides identifying him as a long-term midfield solution capable of operating at the highest level.

While United continue to prioritise other targets in the market, this latest development represents a notable blow in their efforts to compete directly with their rivals for emerging English talent.