Elliot Anderson: United planning January assault to win transfer race | OneFootball

Despite their recent impressive run of form, Manchester United need to address their lack of balance at the base of their midfield as soon as possible if they are to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League at the end of the season.

So far, Ruben Amorim has opted for a midfield pairing of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, and even though the Brazilian has been superb, he has not managed to last 90 minutes in any game this campaign.

Manuel Ugarte was signed in 2024 to be the long-term replacement of the former Real Madrid superstar, but he has been pretty disappointing so far.

The Uruguayan has managed to start three times this term, and the Red Devils has lost on all those occasions. The head coach does not see Kobbie Mainoo as being good enough to play in the deep-lying playmaker position.

Midfielder needed

Which is why Amorim was desperate for INEOS to sign Carlos Baleba in the summer, but Brighton and Hove Albion’s valuation proved prohibitive.

The Cameroonian’s form has fallen off a cliff, which is why the likes of Adam Wharton and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson have overtaken him on United’s shortlist.

Given Forest’s poor form, Anderson is not expected to stay for too long at the City ground with recent reports even stating that the Englishman is open to making the jump to a big club soon.

Which is why the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea, and Newcastle are all lurking with intent alongside the 20-time English league champions.

Forest have slapped a valuation of £100-£120 million on the England international’s head to ward off suitors. But CaughtOffside have claimed United feel a deal can be agreed for less.

The report mentions that INEOS are desperate to win the race for the 22-year-old’s signature and are ready to accelerate their efforts in January to stave off competition from their noisy neighbours and the Blues.

The three-time Champions League winners are ready to offer Forest £70 million in the winter window for the “phenomenal” maestro. Given Forest are in the relegation zone, this money might be hard to turn down.

“Manchester United are ready to step up their efforts to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this January, as first reported here for the Daily Briefing.

“Sources have told me that Man Utd are really keen on Anderson, though they would face paying as much as £70m for the England international.

Elliot Anderson race heating up

“It is also anticipated that they will face particularly strong competition from Manchester City, while Chelsea and Newcastle United will also be names to watch in the race for his signature.”

A source told the website, “United see Anderson as a perfect option and a long-term investment, though they could also accelerate their efforts for him this January.

“There is a unanimous feeling among the directors, Ruben Amorim, and his coaching staff that Anderson would be a great addition in that position.”

With Elliot Anderson keen to make the England team for the World Cup next year, a move to Old Trafford might help with that. At least, that is what INEOS will be banking on.

Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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