According to Sky Sports, Manchester City are looking to rebuild and revamp their midfield for next season, with Elliott Anderson as their top target and likely number one.
City scouts, including sporting director Hugo Viana, have reportedly watched more than 10 of Anderson’s games for Nottingham Forest this season, showing how serious the club are in pursuing the 23-year-old.
But Forest appear to have the upper hand, at least for now. Anderson has a long-term contract with the City Ground, valid until the summer of 2029, so the club has little appetite for selling him in the immediate future.
Since joining Forest from Newcastle United in the summer of 2024, Anderson has quickly established himself as a first-team regular.
Elliott Anderson has impressed several clubs
Anderson blends defensive work with offensive drive. He wins the ball back effectively, puts pressure up front and contributes creatively, giving him the profile of a ‘box-to-box’ or transitional midfielder, perfect for a possession-oriented, high-intensity team like City.
His performance earned him a senior cap for the England national team, greatly raising his stock and giving players the impression that he was a player capable of competing at the highest level.
The question for City, and anyone else chasing him, is the cost. Forest manager believes in Anderson’s potential and importance, reportedly valuing him at more than £100m.
This assessment appears to be deterring some bidders. Recent reports suggest City themselves are reluctant to meet the full asking price, especially in the immediate future, making a January move unlikely.
Man City are looking for a long-term midfield solution
Given concerns over the fitness and long-term future of current midfield mainstays such as Rodri and other aging players, Anderson could be a smart investment from City.
They are expected to face competition from rivals Manchester United, who have expressed an interest in signing the England midfielder.
The strong competition for Anderson is good news for Forest, who could see his value increase further, but they are expected to lose a player who is crucial to their project.
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