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Manchester United must fork out £70 million to land former cross city rival making a mark in the Premier League

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 11, 2025 9:22 AM ET

Nottingham Forest will demand £70 million for Manchester United target Elliot Anderson

Manchester United’s scouts have spent months watching young talents across England. One name has attracted attention at Carrington, and he is Elliot Anderson. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has drawn United’s attention for their winter plans, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke on Football Insider. Anderson has climbed the ranks quickly and steadily. His recent form has impressed many beyond the City Ground. The 22-year-old plays in midfield with vigorous drive and calmness. That quality attracts clubs seeking a balance between youth and maturity.

The report stated that Nottingham Forest may demand around £70 million for the 21-year-old when the window opens in January. That price could make any deal difficult. United have already proved they are willing to invest in young English talent. Newcastle United continue to monitor him closely. They want to bring the player back to Tyneside, where he began his career. The competition looks strong right now, and Forest hold firm on their valuation. We reported earlier that Nottingham Forest do not want to sell Manchester United target Elliot Anderson. That stance could stretch talks deep into winter.

Anderson strengthens Nottingham Forest’s midfield with his energy and precision. He moves between a number 8 and a number 10 role. The Englishman keeps pushing the ball forward and drags defenders out of position. His sharp passing and defensive awareness make him one of the most complete young English midfielders in the Premier League this season.

Is the £70m gamble worth it for United?

Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United already feature attacking options like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Mason Mount. They also have Kobbie Mainoo in the ranks. Bruno often drifts into central spaces, although he is playing in a deeper role this season.

Amorim demands midfielders who turn possession into pressure. The young Englishman naturally plays that way. Anderson controls the ball closely, turns quickly in tight spaces, and is sharp with his passes. These traits show he could thrive under Amorim’s high-tempo setup.

Still, the £70 million fee feels steep for a player who is still developing at the top level. We reported earlier that Manchester United could offload Bruno Fernandes to sign Anderson. That move would spark debate among fans. Anderson shows clear potential, and his England debut increases the excitement. Yet, spending that much on a promise alone remains a bold step. If United take the risk, and he fulfils his potential, they secure their midfield for years. If not, they face another costly mistake in their rebuild. In football, ambition and risk often decide how history remembers a transfer.

If United do move on from Bruno, then it will be a good move, provided they receive a good valuation for the Portuguese midfielder. Otherwise, the club should look at reinforcing the defensive midfield position, which should be the priority right now.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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