According to a report in the Daily Mail, Manchester United are already laying the foundations for a major midfield overhaul, with Elliott Anderson as a key target.
However, a deal for the Nottingham Forest midfielder is unlikely to materialize until the summer, with Forest still locked in a relegation battle and aiming for a place in the top half of the UEFA Europa League.
Anderson had an outstanding season, cementing his place as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic young midfielders.
His energy, ball-running ability and creativity have also caught the eye at Old Trafford, with recruiters seeing him as a long-term solution.
Elliot Anderson has several admirers.
The Mail added that several top clubs are tracking his progress and England’s bosses are increasingly eyeing him as a future international regular, with a bidding war expected to unfold for the 23-year-old.
There is growing speculation that Anderson could partner Declan Rice in England’s midfield at the next World Cup, showing just how highly rated he is.
Manchester United are looking to revamp their midfield under manager Ruben Amorim, with Andersson a top target.
The club considered options for a holding midfielder at the end of the summer window, making inquiries to Brighton’s Carlos Baleva and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher. Neither deal progressed, but both players remain on United’s radar as they plan their future.
Another name on the shortlist is Adam Wharton, who did well at Crystal Palace.
United see Wharton as a technically gifted midfielder who can control the tempo and contribute defensively, making him an attractive profile for Amorim’s system.
Wolves’ Brazilian enforcer Joao Gomez has also been praised for his intensity and ball-winning qualities.
Manchester United are eyeing a top midfielder
United are also eyeing Bournemouth and American international Tyler Adams, whose Premier League experience and pressing ability fit the club’s criteria.
However, Adams injured his knee in Bournemouth’s dramatic 4-4 draw with Manchester United earlier this month, effectively ruling out any chances of a January move.
For now, United have accepted that their options are limited in January, especially as many of their priority targets still play key roles for clubs fighting on multiple fronts.
The focus is therefore on detailed reconnaissance, early conversations and securing strong positions ahead of the summer window.
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