Manchester United are willing to break their transfer record to sign Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson this summer, according to reports.
The Old Trafford side have earmarked the 23-year-old as their top target for the upcoming transfer window and could be ready to meet Forest’s hefty asking price.
The City Ground outfit are believed to be looking for in excess of £100m for Anderson, who joined the club for £35m from Newcastle United in 2024.
Anderson has no shortage of suitors in the Premier League ahead of the summer, with Manchester City emerging as strong rivals for United in the race for the ‘jaw-dropping’ midfielder.
Man Utd to Break Transfer Record for Anderson?
According to TEAMtalk, while Forest have managed to fend off interest in Anderson during the January transfer window, the 23-year-old’s departure this summer now ‘looks a certainty’.
Forest appear unlikely to keep hold of the midfielder regardless of whether they secure Premier League survival, with both Man City and United keen on landing him.
United view Anderson as a priority transfer target and are willing to meet Forest’s asking price to ensure they win the race for his signature.
A move north of £100m would make Anderson the club’s most expensive signing ever, surpassing the £89.3m paid to sign Paul Pogba in 2016.
Anderson Seen as Casemiro Replacement
Looking to overhaul their midfield this summer, United could bring in Anderson as a replacement for Casemiro, whose contract expires after the season.
The Brazil international has announced he will be departing Old Trafford at the end of his agreement, following a three-year spell at the club.
The futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte have also been talking points in recent months, although Mainoo has established himself as an important player once again under Michael Carrick.
Captain Bruno Fernandes’ situation could also be revisited after the season, when the 31-year-old enters the final year of his contract.
Why Top Clubs Are After Anderson
Amid Anderson’s sky-rocketing stock this season, we asked ChatGPT to evaluate what makes the 23-year-old a top target for Premier League clubs:
Homegrown versatility – Anderson can operate across midfield and wide areas, offering tactical flexibility while meeting homegrown requirements.
Energy and pressing – His intensity off the ball suits high-tempo Premier League systems, helping teams win possession and sustain pressure.
Progressive carrying – Anderson drives forward with the ball, linking transitions and adding dynamism between midfield and attack.
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