Manchester United\u2019s worst fears appear to have been realised when it comes to the capture of primary midfield target Elliot Anderson, with sources telling TEAMtalk that bitter rivals Manchester City have already \u2018made contact\u2019 over a big-money deal.<\/p>\n
The Premier League\u2019s transfer mill is heating up once again, with Nottingham Forest midfielder Anderson<\/a> firmly at the centre of intense speculation ahead of the summer window.<\/p>\n As the winter window looks like it could end without a move for the 23-year-old England international, attention has shifted to what could become one of the most hotly-contested deals of the upcoming summer transfer window.<\/p>\n Multiple sources indicate that Man City<\/a> are preparing a strong push for Anderson\u2019s signature, with manager Pep Guardiola said to be a major admirer of the versatile central midfielder. Indeed, my colleague Dean Jones recently detailed City\u2019s firm interest in the player<\/a>\u00a0just last week.<\/p>\n City\u2019s recruitment team, including director of football Hugo Viana, has closely monitored Anderson\u2019s progress at the City Ground, where he has established himself as a key figure.<\/p>\n Indeed, insiders suggest Guardiola views Anderson as an ideal fit for his tactical system \u2013 capable of operating as a deep-lying playmaker or box-to-box No. 8 \u2013 with the technical quality and composure to thrive in high-possession environments.<\/p>\n Sources close to the situation reveal that City have already made contact with Anderson\u2019s representatives, signalling their intent to formalise interest when the summer market opens.<\/p>\n This has sparked significant concern among rival suitors, particularly Man Utd<\/a>, who have identified the former Newcastle United academy product as a top option in their planned midfield overhaul.<\/p>\n Indeed, United are targeting multiple reinforcements in the engine room, with Anderson high on the list alongside Brighton\u2019s Carlos Baleba<\/a>.<\/p>\n