Journalist: Liverpool are in the race to sign £70m Premier League star | OneFootball

Liverpool Monitoring Elliot Anderson as Transfer Race Intensifies

Liverpool’s recruitment team rarely moves without careful observation and long term planning, and the emergence of Elliot Anderson at Nottingham Forest appears to have caught their attention. According to a report credited to Alex Crook of talkSPORT, the Reds are among several Premier League heavyweights keeping a close eye on the England international as his reputation continues to grow.

Forest’s decision to sign Anderson from Newcastle in the summer of 2024 initially raised eyebrows given the £35m fee. Yet two seasons later the midfielder looks like one of the most astute acquisitions made by the club in recent years. His development has been rapid, and interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United highlights how far he has come.

Rising Premier League Profile

Anderson’s rise has been driven by consistent performances in the Premier League. Forest invested heavily to secure him when Newcastle were under pressure to balance their finances through Profit and Sustainability Rules. At the time, Forest believed they were signing a player capable of anchoring their midfield for years.

That belief now looks justified. The 23-year-old has played in every Premier League match for Forest this season, contributing two goals and three assists while providing energy and control in midfield. Over the course of his Forest career he has already surpassed 60 top flight appearances, regularly ranking among the side’s leading players for chances created and ball recoveries.

His style has drawn praise across the league. Anderson combines relentless pressing with technical composure, capable of carrying the ball through tight spaces and unlocking defences with progressive passes. Those qualities have elevated his standing and pushed him firmly onto the radar of England manager Thomas Tuchel.

Photo: IMAGO

England Recognition Driving Interest

International recognition often accelerates transfer interest, and Anderson’s first England call up in August 2025 marked a significant moment in his development. He made his senior debut the following month, appearing from the bench during a World Cup qualifier against Andorra.

With the upcoming World Cup approaching, Anderson remains in contention for Tuchel’s squad. Continued exposure at international level will only strengthen his profile among Europe’s elite clubs.

Manchester Clubs Lead Early Pursuit

Liverpool’s monitoring is part of a wider transfer battle forming around the midfielder. Alex Crook revealed that Manchester City currently believe they hold an advantage in the race.

“Manchester City are primed to step up their interest in Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson,” Crook reported.

“The England international is seen as a potential successor for Rodri and City believe Anderson favours a move to them over neighbours Manchester United, who are also keen.”

“Aside from the two Manchester clubs, Liverpool have also kept close tabs on the 23-year-old.”

Forest are aware of the growing interest and appear ready to demand a substantial fee.

“Forest value Anderson at more than double the £35m they paid Newcastle to sign him in the summer of 2024.”

That valuation places the midfielder comfortably above the £70m mark, a figure reflecting both his age and his influence within Forest’s side.

Liverpool Recruitment Strategy in Focus

Liverpool’s interest fits a familiar pattern. The club’s recruitment department often tracks players extensively before making a decisive move. Anderson’s energy, tactical awareness and ability to operate across midfield roles align with the type of profiles Liverpool have targeted in recent years.

Whether that interest develops into a concrete approach remains uncertain, particularly with Manchester City positioning themselves strongly. Yet Liverpool’s presence in the conversation highlights Anderson’s rising status in English football.

For Forest, the situation presents both opportunity and challenge. Holding onto one of their most influential players would strengthen their ambitions, yet a fee above £70m could prove difficult to ignore.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Elliot Anderson feels like exactly the sort of midfielder supporters would be excited about, particularly given the current uncertainty in the squad. Despite Arne Slot delivering the Premier League title in his first season, the campaign that followed has been inconsistent. Sitting sixth after a summer spending spree of around £450m raises questions about balance and midfield control.

Anderson would bring intensity and mobility, two qualities Liverpool have sometimes lacked this season. His pressing numbers and ball recoveries suggest he would adapt naturally to Slot’s aggressive style. He also carries the ball well through midfield, something that could help Liverpool progress play more quickly when facing compact defences.

The biggest concern will be competition. Manchester City identifying him as a potential successor to Rodri tells you everything about how highly he is rated. If City decide to move decisively, it becomes a difficult battle for any club.

There is also the financial aspect. A valuation beyond £70m places Anderson firmly among the Premier League’s most expensive midfield targets. Liverpool have shown they are willing to spend when the right player becomes available, but another major outlay after last summer would require absolute conviction.

For supporters, the encouraging part is that Liverpool are monitoring players of this profile. Anderson is young, Premier League proven and still improving. If the club believes he can become a long term midfield leader at Anfield, many fans would welcome the pursuit.