Man United lose race for Elliot Anderson as £116m City deal ends their interest

Manchester City have agreed a £116m deal to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, ending Manchester United’s interest in the player and forcing the Old Trafford club to accelerate alternative plans ahead of what is shaping up to be a significant summer rebuild.

United had been monitoring Anderson for some time, but City’s agreement confirmed they are no longer in contention. Mateus Fernandes has now emerged as United’s top midfield target following a separate deal between Atalanta and Brazil international Ederson.

The midfield overhaul is further complicated by the situation surrounding Manuel Ugarte. United had hoped to move the Uruguayan on this summer and bring in a third new central midfielder, but Ugarte sustained an injury during Uruguay’s defeat to Spain in the early hours of Saturday morning — a setback that could affect his chances of securing an exit.

In goal, Andre Onana is set to leave Old Trafford on a second loan spell, with United close to agreeing terms for the Cameroon international to return to Trabzonspor in Turkey. With Radek Vitek also expected to depart permanently, United are considering Karl Darlow and Sam Johnstone as potential second-choice options.

Out wide, United are targeting reinforcements on the left side, with both a left-back and a left winger under consideration. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall is admired at the club, while Crysencio Summerville and Iliman Ndiaye feature on a list of potential left-wing additions.

The Marcus Rashford situation remains unresolved. Barcelona chose not to exercise the option to make his loan move permanent for £26m, and United have made clear they have no intention of re-entering talks with the Spanish club over another loan or a reduced fee.

Up front, United are exploring the possibility of adding an experienced centre forward while holding firm on Benjamin Sesko, despite reported interest from Barcelona. The club’s preference is to add to their attacking options rather than sell.