Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United, but several clubs are lining up for his signature as he continues to perform in the Premier League.
Ruben Amorim is expected to address his midfield issues in 2026 after Manchester United’s failed pursuit of Carlos Baleba in the summer.
In the United coach’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro are the preferred options as a double pivot, but both players are in their thirties.
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Casemiro’s contract is set to expire in the summer, which will play a big role in United’s thinking ahead of the transfer window.
United have been linked with multiple midfield options since the beginning of the season. Most of them are already playing in the Premier League, such as Adam Wharton at Crystal Palace and Elliot Anderson at Nottingham Forest.
However, United won’t be the only Premier League club looking to add to their midfield in the new year.
Wharton and Anderson will have interest from other top English clubs, especially if they continue to perform at such a high level.
Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty ImagesElliot Anderson ‘keen’ on Man Utd move
Like Wharton, Anderson has been getting plenty of plaudits this season.
Former Arsenal ace Jack Wilshere raved over Anderson recently and seemingly gave his approval for the London outfit to sign him.
Anderson stood out in United’s 2-2 draw with Forest, proving his worth in front of Amorim at the City Ground.
Elliot was seen as a United target at the time, but a strong audition led to more speculation over the move.
Now, TEAMtalk claims Anderson is a top midfield target for United in 2026, with the England international “very keen” on a move to Old Trafford.
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It is understood that United are confident of striking a £60 million deal for Anderson, despite widespread belief that Forest will be demanding £120 million for his signature in the summer.
The report added that Arsenal are interested in signing Anderson next year.
Elliot Anderson audition against Man Utd rivals
The Times believe Liverpool are keen to sign Anderson, despite spending big on their midfield in the previous transfer window.
That would suggest Arne Slot wants to add more to his rebuild in the middle of the park, adding extra competition, or that he is not satisfied with his current options.
Anderson will travel to Anfield this afternoon as Forest take on Liverpool in the Premier League.
United fans will hope Anderson plays so well he can help Forest take three points from Slot’s side.