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Manchester City have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Elliot Anderson, with the Nottingham Forest midfielder reportedly favoring a move to the Etihad Stadium over a switch to rivals Manchester United.
Expectations are increasing that Anderson could leave Nottingham Forest during the upcoming transfer window, although discussions remain at an early stage and no agreement has been reached.
Manchester United are believed to remain interested in the 23-year-old but are unwilling to become involved in lengthy negotiations or agree to a deal they consider excessive. That approach could give City an advantage as interest in Anderson continues to grow.
However, negotiations between Forest and Manchester City are not close to completion. Reports suggest that the two clubs currently have very different views regarding the player's value, meaning any potential transfer remains uncertain and circumstances could still shift.
If a move eventually materializes at the figures being discussed, the transfer could potentially become the most expensive deal involving a British player, surpassing the £105 million fee paid by Arsenal to West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023.
There is also a growing feeling within Forest that Anderson could become the club's major departure this summer should a significant sale take place. Club officials may also feel his value could rise further depending on his performances at the World Cup with England.
Following Nottingham Forest's 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth, manager Vitor Pereira praised both Anderson and teammate Morgan Gibbs-White, saying they deserve to compete at the highest level.
Pereira made it clear that he would prefer to keep his key players but acknowledged that transfer decisions are not entirely within the club's control. He emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency and retaining the core of the squad if Forest want to continue progressing.
Anderson joined Forest from Newcastle United in 2024 for £35 million and has since made 92 appearances, scoring six goals. His most recent outing against Bournemouth marked his 50th appearance of the season, and supporters gave him a standing ovation as he left the pitch.
