Manchester City's pursuit of Elliot Anderson is officially under way — and already hitting its first obstacle. Nottingham Forest have rejected City's opening bid for the 23-year-old midfielder, with the clubs still some distance apart on a valuation that could shatter British transfer records.
City Formalise Their Interest
The noises out of the Etihad have been growing louder for several weeks, and City have now moved from admiration to action. Their first formal offer has been rebuffed by Forest, who show no urgency to do business cheaply. The figure involved has not been publicly confirmed, but the expectation in the market is that any eventual fee will eclipse the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham for Declan Rice back in 2023 — a sum that would make Anderson the most expensive British player in history.
BBC Sport reported last week that Anderson himself is favourably disposed towards a move to the Etihad over the other major suitor in the frame, Manchester United. That personal preference matters, but Forest hold the cards on the fee — and they know it.
Why City Need Him
The departure of captain Bernardo Silva has left a significant void in City's engine room, and Anderson tops their list of replacements. He made 50 appearances for Forest last season, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic midfielders in the Premier League. His form earned him a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
Anderson is currently with the England camp preparing for the tournament, though club-to-club negotiations can proceed in parallel. City will hope to have something close to an agreement in principle before he returns to club matters.
A Busy Summer Ahead for City
Anderson is not the only name on City's list. Newcastle's Sandro Tonali is understood to be a long-term target and has been monitored by the club, though reports suggest he remains in Italy for now. Meanwhile, Nico Gonzalez — who missed out on Spain's World Cup squad and fell out of favour under Pep Guardiola last term — could depart if a suitable offer arrives.
City are also in the market for a right-back. Matheus Nunes, 28, excelled after being converted into the position this season, but the club are looking to bring in a natural right-back with a younger profile who can develop into the role over time.
Forest Hold the Upper Hand — For Now
Forest are under no obligation to sell, and a rejection of the first bid is standard practice for a club that knows the demand for their prize asset. They will expect City to return with an improved offer, and given Anderson's profile — England international, World Cup squad member, proven Premier League operator — they have every reason to hold firm.
City, though, have the resources and the motivation to get this done. With pre-season approaching and a midfield reshuffle well under way, expect further bids to follow in short order. This one is on its way to being a long, complicated and very expensive negotiation.
Frequently asked
- How much could Elliot Anderson cost Manchester City?
- No official fee has been confirmed, but reports suggest any deal could set a new record for a British player, surpassing the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham for Declan Rice in 2023.
- Does Elliot Anderson want to join Man City or Man Utd?
- According to BBC Sport, Anderson is leaning towards a move to Manchester City over Manchester United, though no transfer has been agreed at this stage.
- Is Elliot Anderson playing at the World Cup 2026?
- Yes. Anderson has been selected in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the 2026 World Cup, which is being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.