Elliot Anderson is emerging as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe, with Nottingham Forest bracing for a summer transfer battle that could see the England international command a record fee for an English player.
Manchester City and Manchester United are both pushing hard to secure the 23-year-old, with City already having an opening bid rejected and preparing to return with an improved offer.
Forest Stand Firm on £110m Valuation
Nottingham Forest have set an ambitious asking price, reportedly targeting a fee in excess of the £105million Arsenal paid West Ham for Declan Rice.
In an ideal scenario, the club would want as much as £110million for Anderson if they are forced to sell this summer.
The club’s valuation reflects Anderson’s rapid rise since arriving from Newcastle United in a £35million deal that also included goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos moving in the opposite direction.
Since then, Anderson has become a central figure at the City Ground, making 92 appearances in total and featuring 50 times across all competitions this season alone.
England Duty Raises Profile Ahead of World Cup
Anderson’s growing reputation has been further boosted by his involvement with England under Thomas Tuchel.
He is currently preparing with the national squad for their World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17.
Fitness permitting, the midfielder is expected to start in England’s midfield alongside Declan Rice, a pairing that has increased his visibility on the global stage and intensified interest from top Premier League clubs.
Manchester Rivalry Intensifies Over Transfer Target
Manchester City are understood to be leading the chase at this stage, although Manchester United remain firmly in the race and have not abandoned hopes of landing the midfielder.
Sources suggest Anderson would currently prefer a move to City, adding further pressure on United as both clubs prepare improved bids in the coming days.
City’s interest is also tied to broader squad planning, with the club preparing for a managerial transition as Enzo Maresca is lined up to replace Pep Guardiola, subject to compensation talks with Chelsea.
Tactical Value and Squad Reshaping at City
Anderson is viewed as a key part of Maresca’s potential rebuild, particularly as City look to refresh their midfield options following the departures of experienced players such as Bernardo Silva and John Stones.
His versatility, composure on the ball, and Premier League experience make him a high-priority target for a side aiming to maintain domestic and European dominance.
Forest Prepare for Wider Transfer Pressure
While Anderson is the headline name, Nottingham Forest are also bracing for interest in other key players this summer, including defender Neco Williams and attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White.
However, the club’s hierarchy believes that a major sale of Anderson—if completed—could ease pressure to sanction further high-profile departures as they attempt to balance ambition with financial realities ahead of a pivotal transfer window.
