Elliot Anderson: Forest’s transfer manoeuvres hand Man United fresh hope in pursuit of midfield sensation | OneFootball

In 2026, Manchester United are expected to invest heavily in their midfield, aiming to assemble the perfect engine room for Ruben Amorim.

Although the Bruno Fernandes–Casemiro partnership has looked decent at times, the midfield still requires significant strengthening. After all, Casemiro is not getting any younger; he turns 33 next year, and he is not the long-term midfield option.

Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte’s struggles have been evident. He is yet to prove himself as the Brazilian‘s ideal successor. And with Amorim seemingly unconvinced by Kobbie Mainoo, INEOS must be prepared to splash the cash so the manager can “get his own midfielders.”

Names in the frame

Several fine midfielders have already been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson are among the names currently being discussed.

United’s Top midfield target

While it remains a mystery which of the trio United will eventually sign, The Peoples Person recently covered a report that claimed Nottingham Forest’s Anderson has emerged as United’s top target.

The Forest lynchpin is enjoying a resurgence. How he went under the radar last season is baffling, but watching him this campaign has been a joy. A complete midfielder in every sense, the England international has become the talk of the Premier League.

With his technical brilliance, he dictates play at the heart of Forest’s midfield and has caught the eye of almost every top club.

Just recently, it was revealed that Manchester City are also eyeing a move for him, with Pep Guardiola personally requesting the signing.

Forest identify a replacement

As the Anderson transfer battle lines are being drawn, an intriguing update has surfaced regarding Forest’s plans. Teamtalk claims The Tricky Trees may have already identified the perfect Anderson replacement.

It is claimed that former Liverpool and now Lyon midfielder Tyler Morton is of massive interest to Forest.

“Forest and Brighton are amongst the clubs watching Morton closely,” reveals Teamtalk.

“Although Lyon are reluctant to sell, the chance to more than double their money in just 12 months could prove irresistible given their financial struggles.”

Teamtalk further adds: “Forest targeting the former England U21 international represents good news for Manchester United, who are hoping to prise Anderson away from the City Ground.”

The Anderson race

United will undoubtedly welcome this boost. Yet even with Forest lining up a replacement, the Anderson race is far from straightforward.

Yes, identifying a successor suggests Forest may have a price in mind for the ex-Newcastle man, but it will not simply be a case of meeting the asking fee.

Player’s choice will be key

Ultimately, Anderson himself will have to be swayed. He must be convinced to snub the advances of other suitors like City and even Real Madrid in favour of a move to Old Trafford.

United’s charm offensive to secure the 23-year-old could begin with Champions League qualification. That achievement alone would provide Amorim with a powerful bargaining chip as he seeks to lure one of England’s most complete midfielders to the Theatre of Dreams.

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social