Manchester United have made Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson (23) their primary objective for the summer 2026 transfer window as they seek a long-term successor to the departing Casemiro. According to GiveMeSport, the England international is the priority for manager Michael Carrick, though Forest have reportedly set a valuation of at least £100 million to deter suitors. The chase is complicated by Manchester City’s presence in the market, with reports in the Manchester Evening News suggesting the Premier League champions currently lead the race for the former Newcastle United playmaker.
Forest valuation and United's midfield vacancy
The £100 million price tag represents a significant appreciation on the £35 million Forest paid Newcastle in July 2024. United’s interest stems from the imminent exit of Casemiro, whose foundational role in the midfield now requires a younger, more mobile replacement. Anderson has evolved from a versatile squad player into the creative fulcrum at the City Ground, recently consolidating his status with two assists against United at Old Trafford. Speaking at a press conference, Forest manager Vitor Pereira acknowledged the interest but insisted the club is fighting to retain their prize asset. "The market is the market, but what I can say to you is the club wants to keep him playing for us," Pereira told reporters. David Ornstein of The Athletic recently reported that Forest intend to offer Pereira a new long-term deal to lead a project centered around keeping key figures like Anderson.
Tactical fit and the battle for Anderson
For Michael Carrick, the pursuit of Anderson aligns with a tactical shift toward high-technicality midfielders. Carrick described the 23-year-old as a player who "offers so much" to his current side, while pundit Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, noted that Anderson is already a "Premier League-ready" solution for United's transition. Anderson’s rise has been steep; since his move from St James' Park, he has earned his senior England debut under Thomas Tuchel and is a near-certainty for the 2026 World Cup squad. While Manchester City are currently considered frontrunners, United hope the prospect of a guaranteed starting role in Casemiro’s absence will pivot the deal. The outcome will likely depend on whether United can meet a valuation that would make Anderson one of the most expensive British players in history, surpassing the £80 million United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019.
Negotiations are expected to intensify following the conclusion of the domestic campaign as Forest formalise their stance on Anderson’s long-term future.