Manchester City lead race for Forest's Anderson as United monitor situation
Manchester City are leading the race to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson and are prepared to make a significant financial offer to the player, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. Manchester United, who have also identified Anderson as a target, remain in the battle but are currently watching the situation unfold, with City considered the frontrunners. The pursuit of the 23-year-old England international signals the beginning of what could be a direct transfer clash between the two Manchester rivals this summer.
Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, stated that City are "very keen" and "going very strong on this deal," with negotiations with Forest set to occur later. The final transfer fee is likely to be heavily influenced by whether Forest retain their Premier League status. Anderson, a versatile midfielder who can operate in central or defensive roles, has been a key figure for Forest since his move from Newcastle United. His Estimated Transfer Value is listed at approximately €52.4 million, though the final price could exceed that figure given the competition for his signature.
Meanwhile, Manchester United's broader transfer strategy involves several other high-profile targets. The club is reportedly interested in Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, but face competition from Liverpool for the Dutch centre-back. According to reports from Nicolo Schira, Spurs have placed a €90 million price tag on Van de Ven, a valuation significantly above his Estimated Transfer Value of €62 million. United view the defender as a potential immediate starter, but the substantial fee presents a significant hurdle.
In attack, United are said to be gathering information on the situation of AC Milan winger Rafael Leao, as reported by Calciomercato. The Portugal international's contract talks with the Italian club have stalled, potentially opening a door for a transfer, though Milan are not expected to sell at a reduced price. Another long-standing target, Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, remains on United's radar, but the club's valuation has reportedly been reassessed. According to The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell, United will not go above £50 million for the Cameroon international, a figure he doubts Brighton would accept after demanding over £100 million last summer.
These potential moves are set against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding the managerial position at Old Trafford. Interim manager Michael Carrick, who has overseen a strong run of form, is not guaranteed the permanent role. Reports from The Athletic suggest owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is cautious and may prefer a manager with a more dominant, "alpha" personality, casting doubt on Carrick's long-term prospects despite his popularity. As the summer window approaches, United's activity in the market will be closely tied to the resolution of their managerial situation, with significant funds potentially being allocated for a major squad overhaul across multiple departments.
