Manchester United set deadline for Elliot Anderson transfer

Manchester United are wasting no time ahead of the summer window, with plans accelerating as the club looks to avoid another drawn-out transfer saga.

Ineos are determined to move with ease this season, and push deals over the line before the market becomes chaotic.

Hesitation in previous windows has cost the club, something they look like they are trying to avoid.

With a midfield rebuild on the horizon, United are setting timelines.

According to The Athletic, United are pushing to secure a deal for Elliot Anderson before the upcoming World Cup, making their stance clear as they look to take control of the situation early.

The Nottingham Forest midfielder has emerged as one of the club’s priority targets.

After a stellar season, Elliot Anderson has become one of the most in-form midfielders in the Premier League.

His performances have not gone unnoticed at international level either, earning him a call-up to the England setup and putting him firmly in contention ahead of the World Cup.

United reportedly want a clear answer before the tournament begins.

They either want to secure their man early or pivot to alternative options without being dragged into a late-window battle.

City are also after Anderson and United appeared to be losing ground on their rivals.

Sandro Tonali has also emerged as a strong target for the Red Devils.

Tonali fits the Ineos model in terms of his age and Premier League proven pedigree, and is believed to be open to a move to the red side of Manchester.

CentreDevils reported that United held talks with his representatives via an intermediary.

The Athletic do however report that the club have concerns over his previous gambling ban.

United are casting a wide net as part of their midfield overhaul, with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes also firmly on the radar.

Casemiro is expected to leave at the end of the season, which will free up both space and wages.

With the World Cup now acting as an unofficial deadline, this transfer battle could be decided long before the window even officially opens.