Manchester United's new ownership will not sanction a £120 million deal to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this summer, according to a report from BBC Sport. The decision from INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, comes despite United's interest in reinforcing their midfield, with the club seeking up to two new players for the position.
United's transfer plans are being formulated as they look to secure a top-five Premier League finish, with senior figures at Old Trafford identifying the midfield as a key area for investment. The anticipated departures of Casemiro and the likely exit of Manuel Ugarte have created a need for new recruits. TEAMtalk reported earlier this month that United were determined to secure a deal for Anderson, a 23-year-old England international.
However, the BBC Sport report states that while United are keen on the player, they view Forest's £120 million valuation as exceeding their cap for any single transfer. "Every player’s value has a cap, no matter how well regarded they are," the report noted. This stance leaves the proposed move in serious doubt unless Forest significantly lowers their asking price.
Anderson's future at the City Ground has been the subject of speculation for some time, with sources indicating he is unlikely to remain with Forest next season regardless of whether the club avoids relegation. The midfielder has attracted attention from several top clubs following an impressive individual campaign, with Manchester City also cited as potential suitors. Sources have told TEAMtalk that while United are aware Anderson may favour a move to City, they believed they could persuade him to choose Old Trafford.
The player's career path adds a layer of context to the story. Anderson was sold by Newcastle United to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2024, a move that former Magpies striker Alan Shearer has repeatedly criticised. Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer lamented the financial rules that forced Newcastle to sell a homegrown talent, arguing the system is "outrageous." He acknowledged, however, that the move has benefited Anderson's development and market value, as regular playing time at Forest has allowed his price tag to "rocket."
Newcastle themselves have been linked with a potential return for Anderson in 2026, but their own difficult season makes that prospect appear remote. For Manchester United, the focus will now shift to other midfield targets, with the club's hierarchy demonstrating a disciplined approach to spending under the new regime. The decision signals a clear intent from Ratcliffe and INEOS to avoid what they perceive as inflated fees, even for highly sought-after Premier League talent.
