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Manchester United’s Move for Top Target Elliot Anderson Faces Setback as Nottingham Forest Reject Manchester City’s Opening Bid
Sameer Bhatia | June 4, 2026 3:52 PM CST

Manchester United are actively pursuing multiple midfield reinforcements this summer as they prepare to find a replacement for Casemiro.

Additionally, reports suggest that Manuel Ugarte could also depart the club once the World Cup concludes.

United have already finalised a transfer fee with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, who is expected to complete his move in July.

The Red Devils are also in negotiations with West Ham United for Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, who impressed in the Premier League last season.

In their search for a third midfielder, United have been linked with several names, including Sandro Tonali, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Elliot Anderson.

Previous reports indicated that Anderson is Manchester United’s primary target, though they face stiff competition from their local rivals, Manchester City, for his signature.

Manchester City have been the most proactive club in discussions with Nottingham Forest regarding the England international, and a new update from The Athletic sheds light on the situation.

Renowned journalist David Ornstein revealed on X that, “Manchester City have submitted opening offer to Nottingham Forest for Elliot Anderson.”

According to Ornstein, Nottingham Forest promptly turned down the proposal, although City remain interested in continuing their pursuit of the player.

Executives from both clubs reportedly met during a UEFA dinner last week, though there is no confirmation that negotiations over Anderson took place during the event.

While the value of City’s initial offer remains undisclosed, multiple sources have suggested that Nottingham Forest would only consider selling if they receive a fee exceeding £100 million, potentially setting a new British transfer record.

Reports from The Peoples Person state that Manchester United have not abandoned their interest in Anderson and are ready to step in should City’s negotiations stall.

If Manchester City’s talks with Forest become prolonged or complicated, United could look to exploit the situation and make their own move.

City are known for walking away from deals they perceive as financially excessive, which could open the door for United to secure the midfielder’s signature.

Featured image: Alex Livesey/Getty Images


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