Manchester United remain confident they can beat Manchester City in the race to sign Elliot Anderson.
City are regarded as favourites to secure a deal for the 23-year-old, who reportedly is leaning towards a move to the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens formalised their interest with an opening £80 million bid, but Nottingham Forest turned down their offer.
The Tricky Trees are holding out for a fee around £100m for Anderson, who is contracted until 2029.
According to The Guardian, United believe they can persuade the talented midfielder to move to Old Trafford.
The club’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains focused on reducing costs but he would be prepared to meet Anderson’s wage demands if the player opts to join the Red Devils.
United have already agreed a £35m deal with Atalanta for Ederson, but more midfield reinforcements are needed.
Casemiro has left the club at the end of his contract, and Manuel Ugarte’s future in Manchester is a source of speculation.
Anderson has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe following his move to Forest in 2024.
He is young and has developed a reputation for his progressive passing, work rate and dual-winning abilities.
Anderson enjoyed a stellar 2025-26 campaign at Forest, amassing 50 appearances across all competitions and scoring four goals.
He is part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup and is expected to start against Croatia on 17 June.
Stats from Transfermarkt
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