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Manchester United’s interest in Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson might not be finished yet, according to the latest updates surrounding the midfielder’s future.

It is widely known that the Red Devils have placed the English midfielder at the top of their shortlist as they look for a replacement for the departing Casemiro this summer.

However, reports suggest that the 23-year-old prefers a move across Manchester to join rivals Manchester City instead of heading to Old Trafford.

With Nottingham Forest missing out on European qualification, there is a growing acceptance within the club that they will likely have to sell the England international before the new season begins.

Nevertheless, Forest are determined to secure a record fee. As per Talksport, Vítor Pereira’s side have set a valuation of £105 million for Anderson — matching the amount Arsenal paid West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023.

Manchester City, on the other hand, are reluctant to meet that figure and are said to value the former Newcastle United player closer to £80 million.

“Sources have told talkSPORT that City want to finalise a deal for the England international before the World Cup, which kicks off on June 11. They have already held verbal discussions with Forest, but there remains a significant gap in valuation. Forest believe Anderson is worth as much as the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023. talkSPORT understands that City currently value Anderson at £80m.”

According to the BBC, Manchester United are wary of being drawn into a bidding war but remain alert to any potential developments that could shift the situation in their favour.

“There is increasing expectation that Anderson will depart the City Ground this summer. United are unwilling to overspend or become entangled in lengthy negotiations. No agreement has yet been reached between Forest and City, and both clubs remain far apart in their valuations of the 23-year-old, meaning the scenario could still evolve.”

United acknowledge that their pursuit of Elliot Anderson faces long odds, which has led them to explore alternative targets such as Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali. However, that move too poses challenges due to high transfer and wage demands.

Alongside their primary targets, Manchester United have also identified Ederson, Mateus Fernandes, and Morten Hjulmand as potential options to strengthen their midfield and possibly replace Manuel Ugarte.