Manchester City make progress towards summer transfer for England international midfielder | OneFootball

Hugo Viana and his Manchester City colleagues are already putting together plans towards the upcoming summer transfer window, it is being reported.

The recently-appointed sporting director is spearheading a strategic refresh of Pep Guardiola’s squad, with a particular focus on injecting energy and long-term security into central midfield areas.

After several seasons of sustained success, Manchester City’s hierarchy are now carefully balancing the demands of the present with the need to evolve key positions over the coming years.

One name that has consistently surfaced is Elliot Anderson, who has grown into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic midfielders, blending technical quality with relentless work rate. And his development has been rewarded at international level, earning recognition from Thomas Tuchel.

Forest remain in a strong contractual position and are under no pressure to sanction a sale, particularly given the player’s importance to their domestic and European ambitions. However, widespread industry expectation suggests this summer could represent a pivotal moment.

Now, according to the information of Flashscore’s Dean Jones, Manchester City are considered the most likely next destination for the Nottingham Forest and England international midfielder during the summer.

Despite reports linking Manchester United with an interest in Elliot Anderson, the latest details state that it is those within the Etihad Stadium who have already made progress towards a deal for the former Newcastle United man.

In fact, the report quotes City sources who themselves believe they are in the driving seat to win the race for Elliot Anderson in a few months time, and also feel as though they are his first-choice destination.

Manchester City are said to have already been working on how to ensure Anderson could fit within their wage structure, particularly in a summer that will likely see the likes of Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Jack Grealish make permanent moves away.

Should a deal be finalised, Anderson would represent another example of Manchester City targeting Premier League-proven talent entering prime years. The club’s recent recruitment model has leaned towards versatility and tactical intelligence – traits the Forest midfielder has consistently displayed.

There is also a broader rivalry narrative at play, with City having edged several high-profile domestic transfer battles in recent windows. Confidence within the Etihad appears to stem not only from financial capability, but from the clarity of Guardiola’s project and the defined pathway offered to players.

While negotiations remain ongoing and no formal agreement has yet been mooted, momentum appears to be building. As Hugo Viana shapes what could be a transformative summer, securing a player of Elliot Anderson’s profile would send a clear message.