Manchester United identify Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson as top summer target
Manchester United have identified Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as their primary target for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to a report from FootballTransfers. The Red Devils view the 23-year-old as a dream signing to bolster their central midfield, an area the club's hierarchy has earmarked as the most pressing in need of reinforcement.
The pursuit comes amid the anticipated departure of experienced midfielder Casemiro, creating a significant vacancy in United's engine room. Anderson, who has been a standout performer for Forest, is widely regarded as one of the most promising midfield talents in the Premier League. His energy, technical ability, and capacity to contribute both defensively and in attack have made him a coveted asset.
United are expected to face fierce competition for his signature, with the report indicating that both Chelsea and Manchester City hold a strong interest in the player. This is likely to drive up the market value for Anderson, who is currently estimated to be worth in the region of €52 million. United's determination to secure the deal is said to be high, as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for major honours next season, a campaign for which they are projected to offer Champions League football.
The potential move represents a significant step up for Anderson, who joined Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in 2024 and has since developed into a key figure at the City Ground. His performances have been instrumental for Forest, making any negotiation with the Midlands club expected to be complex and costly. United's interest signals a shift towards recruiting younger, dynamic British talent as part of their rebuild.
In addition to Anderson, the FootballTransfers report lists several other players on United's radar, suggesting a busy window ahead. Newcastle's Sandro Tonali and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton are also named as central midfield options, while Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite remains a long-term defensive target. The breadth of the list underscores the scale of recruitment planned at Old Trafford, which will run parallel to the club's search for a new permanent head coach.
Securing a player of Anderson's profile would address a critical need for United, providing a potential long-term partner for the emerging Kobbie Mainoo in midfield. The club's ability to finalise a deal, however, will depend on navigating a competitive auction and agreeing a fee with Nottingham Forest, who will be reluctant to lose their prized asset.
