Report: Chelsea ‘keen’ on move to sign Premier League midfielder | OneFootball

Chelsea’s Interest in Elliot Anderson Signals a New Midfield Ambition

Chelsea’s recruitment department appears to be gearing up for another ambitious midfield pursuit, with Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson emerging as a serious name on their radar. As reported by Caught Offside, the 23-year-old has caught the attention of multiple Premier League heavyweights including Manchester United and Manchester City, and now Chelsea have joined the queue.

Extensive Scouting and Strong Impressions

According to the report, Chelsea have carried out “extensive” scouting of Anderson this season and, unsurprisingly, “they like what they’ve seen.” The young midfielder has developed into one of the league’s most complete central players, combining drive, tactical awareness, and consistency in possession.

Thomas Tuchel has reportedly described him as “one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,” a claim that feels more credible when backed by his statistical output. Anderson’s metrics this campaign have drawn comparisons to Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo, underlining his growing stature among England’s elite.

A move to Stamford Bridge would undoubtedly fit the club’s recent strategy of targeting young, technically gifted players, but it won’t come cheap. Forest have made it clear that they will only entertain “huge money” for their star man, which could mean Chelsea must sanction a sale before any approach is formalised.

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Transfer Balancing and Enzo Fernandez Speculation

The obvious question surrounding Chelsea’s potential move for Anderson is where he would fit into Enzo Maresca’s current system. As the report notes, “The Blues arguably also don’t have room for Anderson in their squad right now, which perhaps points towards selling Enzo Fernandez.”

However, sources insist there is “no indication that Chelsea are looking to offload Fernandez,” despite previous speculation about his future. The Argentine remains a central figure under Maresca, though his form has fluctuated since the start of the campaign.

Should Chelsea commit to this pursuit, it might mean reconfiguring their midfield hierarchy. The recruitment team has also been tracking Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo, but Anderson’s Premier League experience and physical profile appear to make him a more ready-made option.

Why Top Clubs Want Anderson

Anderson’s appeal lies in his all-round game. His ability to carry the ball through midfield, win duels, and link play effectively makes him a valuable commodity in a league that prizes dynamism and versatility.

Caught Offside’s report suggests Anderson could “arguably be an upgrade on Fernandez at Chelsea,” though such a statement will divide opinion. While his arrival would represent a major coup, the competition for his signature is fierce, and Manchester United may be better positioned to offer him a starring role.

Still, Chelsea’s growing admiration for the Nottingham Forest man signals their intent to keep refreshing the squad with Premier League-proven quality. If the financial pieces fall into place, Anderson could become another marquee addition to Maresca’s evolving project.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, the link with Elliot Anderson is both exciting and puzzling. Supporters can appreciate the club’s ambition to target one of the league’s standout midfielders, but many will question whether another central player is really a priority right now.

Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea already boast a packed midfield featuring Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia. Adding Anderson to that list could create an imbalance unless someone is sold, and while Caught Offside suggests Fernandez might be the logical exit route, that would be a controversial decision among the fanbase.

There’s also the question of fit. Anderson’s strengths lie in progressive play and pressing high up the pitch, attributes that suit Maresca’s system, but he’d need consistent minutes to develop further. Competing with established internationals could stunt that growth.

For many Chelsea supporters, this story reads more as long-term positioning than immediate action. It might be about keeping tabs on a rising English talent rather than preparing an imminent bid. If Forest hold out for top dollar, the Blues may focus their resources elsewhere, perhaps in attack or at centre-back where reinforcements seem more urgent.

Still, the fact Chelsea are scouting such profiles reflects well on the direction of the club’s recruitment. Even if Anderson never pulls on the blue shirt, the intent to stay ahead of rivals like United and City in identifying talent remains clear.