Manchester United face Liverpool battle for Van de Ven as City lead Anderson chase
Manchester United are set for a summer battle with Liverpool over the signing of Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, while Manchester City have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. According to reports, Spurs have placed a €90 million price tag on Van de Ven, a valuation significantly above his Estimated Transfer Value of €62 million. United see the Dutch centre-back as a potential first signing who could make an immediate impact, but face direct competition from their historic rivals for his signature.
In the midfield, United's interest in Elliot Anderson is being challenged by the financial power of their neighbours. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed a "big" bid for the Forest midfielder is set to be lodged from Manchester, with City currently leading the race. Romano stated that City are prepared to offer "really important money" to the player and are going "very strong" on the deal. United remain interested but are currently watching the situation, ready to move if City cannot finalise an agreement.
The pursuit of Anderson is complicated by Nottingham Forest's ongoing battle against Premier League relegation, with the final transfer fee likely dependent on the club's division status next season. Meanwhile, United are also reportedly gathering information on a possible move for AC Milan winger Rafael Leao, whose contract talks with the Italian club have stalled. His relationship with Milan is described as "almost at breaking point," though the Rossoneri are not expected to sell at a bargain price.
United's transfer strategy appears to be reassessing several targets. The club's interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba remains, but their valuation has shifted dramatically. According to The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell, United were told last summer it would take over €120 million to sign the Cameroonian, a figure they would not match. The club has now completely reassessed the player and will not go above £50 million, a sum Whitwell doubts Brighton would accept.
These transfer developments unfold against a backdrop of uncertainty over the managerial position at Old Trafford. Interim manager Michael Carrick, despite a strong period in charge, is not guaranteed the role permanently. According to reports, owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is cautious and is said to favour a more "alpha" personality for the job, casting doubt on Carrick's long-term prospects. The club's leadership appears hesitant, with Ratcliffe seen as a pivotal figure in deciding the direction of the appointment.
