According to recent reports from Sky Sports and several outlets, Manchester City have identified Elliot Anderson as their priority target as they prepare to rebuild and refresh their midfield ahead of next season.
“Elliot Anderson emerges as Manchester City’s top transfer target”
Scouts from City, including sporting director Hugo Viana, have reportedly watched Anderson’s performances for Nottingham Forest more than ten times this season — a clear signal of serious interest.
Since his move to Forest from Newcastle United in summer 2024, Anderson has become a regular in the first team, impressing with a blend of defensive grit, forward-driving energy and creative output — the kind of box-to-box, transitional midfielder City value.
On top of his club performances, Anderson has also broken into the senior England squad, boosting his appeal and market value even further.
However, the path to his transfer looks far from straightforward. Forest have locked him into a long-term contract valid until summer 2029, which gives them little incentive to cash in quickly.
More importantly, Forest’s valuation — reportedly around £100 million — appears to be a major sticking point. That price tag seems to be giving even City pause, which makes a January move unlikely according to current reports.
For City, though, Anderson represents a smart long-term investment — a youthful, dynamic midfielder who could help offset concerns over the fitness and aging profile of their existing midfield core.
At the same time, rivals such as Manchester United are also reportedly circling, which could drive competition and further increase his value.
At this stage, the decision appears to be with Forest — and the price accompanying Anderson. If City do make their move, it may have to wait until next summer, when there is enough time to negotiate a deal that satisfies all parties.
Until then, the Etihad outfit remain hopeful: Elliott Anderson is very much on their radar.
