England star ‘very keen’ on a move to Old Trafford | OneFootball

Man Utd Plan Major January Midfield Reinforcement Move

Manchester United appear to have placed Elliot Anderson at the top of their winter priority list, with confidence building around a deal that could reshape Ruben Amorim’s midfield options. Credit to TeamTalk for reporting that United are intensifying their push and preparing a substantial bid for the Nottingham Forest star.

United sources stated Anderson would be “very keen” to join, and the belief at Old Trafford is that his mix of tenacity, intelligence, and progressive passing suits Amorim’s high-energy blueprint. Anderson only arrived at the City Ground last summer for £35 million, yet Forest now value him around £80 million, although “United believe a deal can be struck for closer to £60m.”

That valuation underscores his swift rise. At 22, the midfielder has already become pivotal for Forest and has stood out in a difficult campaign. TeamTalk note that his “energetic displays in midfield have caught the eye of United’s boss, Ruben Amorim, who sources say is desperate to inject more dynamism and legs into his engine room.”

Anderson’s Ideal Profile For Amorim

Anderson thrives in high-tempo environments. His ability to press, break lines, and cover ground mirrors the demands of Amorim’s system. TeamTalk highlight his “relentless work rate, pressing ability, and box-to-box stamina” as key traits admired by United. His pinpoint forward passing is another major appeal and aligns with the club’s goal to accelerate transition play instead of stalling in slow phases.

Photo IMAGO

Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 structure requires midfielders who can survive and thrive when outnumbered centrally. Anderson’s stamina and discipline could be decisive in those situations, especially with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro currently carrying heavy tactical and physical loads.

Forest’s Firm Stance

Forest’s relegation battle complicates negotiations. Sitting in 19th place, Anderson’s influence has been described as “the brightest spark at the City Ground this term.” Losing him mid-season carries clear sporting risk. TeamTalk report that Forest will “put up stiff resistance” unless the figure approaches their valuation. However, with the midfielder open to the move and United shaping an officially structured bid, talks are expected to progress.

January Deal Outlook

There is quiet belief at Carrington that Anderson represents both a January upgrade and a long-term asset. United are said to be “prepared to test Forest’s resolve with a structured offer that would total a figure around £60m.” The coming weeks could prove pivotal, with the player’s ambition and United’s financial strategy forming critical negotiating levers.

Should United secure Anderson, they add energy and precision to an area in need of renewal. Should Forest hold firm, the price to unlock him later only rises.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter perspective, this move feels ambitious and measured at the same time. Anderson might not command the star power usually associated with United pursuits, yet his profile fits what this squad needs. Fans have watched United struggle to control games and maintain tempo against teams who press or crowd midfield. Anderson looks like exactly the type to fix that problem.

At the same time, there is respect for Forest holding firm. They paid big money, developed him quickly, and now sit in a relegation fight. Selling one of their best performers in January feels reckless from their point of view, unless the fee gives them decisive spending power to reinvest.

If the deal lands around £60 million, supporters will view it as smart long-term planning rather than over-spending. Still, there may be anxiety about whether this closes the door to a more marquee midfielder in summer. For now, fans will be intrigued. It is bold, it is strategic, and it would represent a shift in recruitment towards role-specific, system-fit players rather than headline hunting. If Anderson steps in and anchors Amorim’s philosophy, supporters could look back on this as the moment the midfield began a new era.