Man United to stay in Anderson race and force City into club-record £100m fee

Manchester United plan to keep Elliot Anderson on their shortlist even as Manchester City close in on a deal that would cost them more than £100 million — a figure that would surpass the £97 million City paid for Jack Grealish in 2021 and set a new club record.

Talks between City and Nottingham Forest have been described as productive, with Anderson understood to prefer a move to the Etihad despite Pep Guardiola’s departure. City’s opening offer has already been rejected by Forest, and United’s continued presence in the race is seen as leverage that could drive the price higher before any agreement is reached.

United acknowledge they are Anderson’s second choice and accept the risk of a public snub, but the club believes staying in the running serves a tactical purpose. Forest, aware of United’s interest, have little incentive to settle quickly with City while a rival bidder remains at the table.

The situation echoes United’s recent history with high-profile midfield targets. The club was linked with Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo three years ago but never submitted formal bids; Rice eventually signed for Arsenal for £105 million and Caicedo joined Chelsea for £115 million.

United have already agreed a £35 million deal to sign Brazil international Ederson from Atalanta and are targeting further midfield reinforcements. Sandro Tonali and Carlos Baleba are among the alternatives on their shortlist, with several options drawn from the Premier League.

City’s urgency in the market is partly driven by Rodri’s contract situation. The Spain international is out of contract next year and has been persistently linked with a return to his home country, making Anderson an attractive long-term replacement in the centre of the pitch.

Anderson is set to represent England at the 2026 World Cup this summer, but national team head coach Thomas Tuchel has made clear he will not block transfers during the tournament. “If it is quietly done, privately done, done efficiently, we are always happy to help to have clarity around the player,” Tuchel said. “If anyone has the chance to complete a change of club and a transfer, we will not stand in the way but it has to align of course with our schedule.”