Both Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Newcastle all want England star | OneFootball

Man Utd step up pursuit of Elliot Anderson as Nottingham Forest brace for bids

Manchester United are preparing to accelerate their move for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson ahead of the January transfer window, with growing belief that the midfielder fits perfectly into Ruben Amorim’s long-term plans. Interest in the England international has intensified across Europe, and Forest are expecting formal approaches from several major clubs before the new year.

Anderson’s rise attracting Premier League giants

Elliot Anderson’s performances for Nottingham Forest this season have been nothing short of transformative. Operating with energy, precision and maturity beyond his 22 years, he has become central to Forest’s midfield balance and one of the most consistent English talents in the Premier League. His evolution has not gone unnoticed at Old Trafford, where recruitment chiefs view Anderson as a potential cornerstone in Amorim’s rebuilding project.

Manchester United are aware that Forest value Anderson at around £70 million — a figure that reflects both his importance to the club and the scarcity of elite, homegrown midfielders in the current market. While United are confident of their financial capacity to complete a deal, they will face competition from Manchester City and Chelsea, both of whom have sent scouts to monitor Anderson in recent weeks.

Photo: IMAGO

Amorim sees Anderson as a long-term solution

Sources close to United’s hierarchy suggest that Amorim has personally endorsed Anderson’s profile. The Portuguese coach sees the midfielder as a long-term successor to Casemiro, whose influence remains significant but whose physical decline has been increasingly evident. There is also a feeling within United’s leadership that Anderson could bring a technical consistency lacking in Manuel Ugarte’s recent displays.

One senior club figure described Anderson as “a player with the right character, intensity, and technical range to fit the direction we’re taking.” Amorim’s vision of a dynamic, possession-based system requires midfielders who can transition quickly and contribute creatively in the final third — areas where Anderson’s versatility has made him a standout figure for Nottingham Forest and England.

Forest reluctant but realistic about interest

Nottingham Forest remain publicly committed to retaining their star midfielder, yet privately acknowledge that a substantial offer could test their resolve. Anderson has three years left on his current contract, and Forest’s financial position gives them some negotiating strength. However, should a bidding war develop, it may become increasingly difficult for them to hold on to a player whose ambition is aligned with competing in Europe’s top competitions.

City’s interest adds further intrigue. Pep Guardiola’s side have been monitoring several young English midfielders, and Anderson’s adaptability makes him a natural candidate. Chelsea’s pursuit, meanwhile, stems from their continued focus on long-term squad building with domestic talent. Newcastle United are also watching developments closely, though they are not currently prioritising a move.

January decision looms amid international ambitions

Anderson’s situation is complicated by the timing of the next World Cup cycle. Having recently broken into the England squad, the midfielder is keen to ensure consistent playing time. A move in January carries both risk and opportunity — a step up to Manchester United or Manchester City could elevate his international standing, but only if he secures a regular starting role.

For United, the decision may come down to timing and financial balance. Amorim is determined to reshape his midfield options quickly, and Anderson’s blend of homegrown status, tactical intelligence and untapped potential makes him an attractive investment.

Whatever the outcome, Anderson’s next move is shaping up to be one of the defining stories of the January window — and Manchester United appear determined not to let another English talent slip through their grasp.