Elliot Anderson: Man United’s transfer plans under threat from Man City

Manchester United’s plans to bring Elliot Anderson to the Theatre of Dreams appear to be under serious threat from Manchester City. The Red Devils are looking to add more quality to their misfiring midfield, which has been crying out for reinforcements all season.

The Premier League giants opted to focus all their attention on their frontline last summer, and that decision has already paid dividends. However, the middle of the park has now emerged as the weak link in the squad.

United have already returned to a three-man midfield following Ruben Amorim’s departure earlier this month. However, with Casemiro out of contract in less than six months and Portuguese magnifico Bruno Fernandes staring at an uncertain future, the Red Devils are expected to invest heavily in the position this year.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Nottingham Forest maestro Anderson is on INEOS’ wish list for the role.

Anderson has seen his stock rise following a series of convincing performances for the West Bridgford club. The Englishman has been one of the few positives for Forest in a dismal season so far.

The 23 year old has emerged as one of the finest midfielders in the league so far, mixing defensive steel and passing flair with aplomb. He has registered the most passes and the most successful short passes among midfielders in the Premier League this season.

Among midfielders, only Granit Xhaka and Bruno Fernandes have managed more successful long passes than Anderson so far. He has also won the most duels (164) in the top tier of English football this campaign, highlighting his dominance in the middle of the park.

Source: Premier League website .

United are understandably enticed by the possibility of adding the Englishman to their squad as a long-term replacement for Casemiro . However, a concerning update has now emerged that is likely to cause a few worries behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

According to TEAMtalk , Manchester City have already established contact with Anderson ahead of a possible move this summer.

“Manchester United’s worst fears appear to have been realised when it comes to the capture of primary midfield target Elliot Anderson , with sources telling TEAMtalk that bitter rivals Manchester City have already ‘made contact’ over a big-money deal.”

“Multiple sources indicate that Man City are preparing a strong push for Anderson’s signature, with manager Pep Guardiola said to be a major admirer of the versatile central midfielder.”

“City’s recruitment team, including director of football Hugo Viana, has closely monitored Anderson’s progress at the City Ground, where he has established himself as a key figure.”

The report states that Pep Guardiola sees Anderson as the ideal fit in his system, and adds that the situation has already caused some anxiety at Old Trafford. It is also mentioned that the Englishman wants to move to the Etihad and sees it as the right step in his career.

Chelsea and Bayern Munich are in the race as well, although it looks increasingly likely that this could become a battle between the two Manchester giants. The player is under contract until 2029 and Forest are likely to demand around £80-100 million for his services this summer. However, that price could rise further if Anderson impresses at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

United have lived to regret missing out on Declan Rice, who has transformed Arsenal since his move to the Emirates a couple of summers ago. The Red Devils cannot afford to repeat that mistake and should do everything possible to secure the signature of Anderson this year.

Featured image Dan Istidene via Getty Images

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