Forest star a serious target for Manchester United | OneFootball

Man United Eye Elliot Anderson After Baleba Setback

Manchester United’s search for midfield reinforcements has turned to Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson after missing out on Brighton’s Carlos Baleba during the summer window. As reported by The Mirror, Anderson’s rapid rise for both club and country has made him one of the most sought-after young English players in the Premier League.

Rising Star in Demand

Anderson’s story has been one of swift transformation. Sold by Newcastle United last year for £35 million, the midfielder’s move to Nottingham Forest was seen as a financial necessity rather than footballing logic. Since then, his trajectory has been remarkable. At just 22, he has already won four senior England caps and is “seen as a strong possibility to start in next year’s World Cup.”

Manchester City and Chelsea are also monitoring Anderson closely, with The Mirror describing him as “one of English football’s best prospects.” Forest, though, are reluctant to sell. His valuation now stands around £75 million, reflecting not only his talent but his importance to a team looking to consolidate in both the Premier League and Europe.

United’s Midfield Rebuild

United’s midfield remains an area in flux. After spending over £200 million on attacking reinforcements including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, attention is now turning to balance. With Casemiro’s contract expiring next summer and Bruno Fernandes attracting external interest, recruitment in that department is crucial.

Brighton owner Tony Bloom confirmed United’s earlier interest in Baleba, saying, “There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn’t available this summer and they went away.” His comments underline the club’s firm stance on retaining key players, forcing United to explore alternative options.

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Forest’s Reluctance and the £75m Question

For Forest, keeping Anderson may be as significant as any signing they make. He has started all ten of the club’s Premier League and Europa League matches this season and is central to Sean Dyche’s plans. His blend of energy, composure, and versatility has drawn comparisons to players like Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.

As one Forest source reportedly said, “Selling Anderson would feel like ripping out the spine of this side.” Manchester United’s challenge will be to convince both club and player that Old Trafford is the right next step in his journey.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United fans, this report from The Mirror feels both promising and familiar. The club has been linked with young English talent for years, but the key issue remains turning interest into results. Elliot Anderson looks tailor-made for what United lack: a midfielder capable of covering ground, progressing play, and contributing defensively.

Many supporters will see this as a potential move toward the type of balanced midfield the club has missed for years and years. With Casemiro nearing the end of his contract and Fernandes possibly tempted by overseas offers, Anderson represents the kind of long-term investment fans crave.

However, the £75 million price tag raises questions. After years of inflated spending and inconsistent recruitment, United must decide if Anderson is the player to build around or another expensive target that slips away. Forest’s determination to keep him suggests negotiations would be anything but straightforward.

Still, there’s a growing sense among fans that United need a player with Anderson’s hunger and form. As one fan posted online, “He’s everything we thought we’d get from Baleba – only better and already Premier League proven.” For a club in transition, that alone makes the pursuit worth watching.