Metro reported on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, that despite intense rivalry from Manchester City, Manchester United management are apparently convinced that they can sign England midfielder Elliot Anderson before their city rivals. The 23-year-old is honing his World Cup skills in anticipation of a significant part for England under Thomas Tuchel’s tutelage. Thanks in large part to Anderson’s efforts, Nottingham Forest were able to retain their Premier League status and go on a solid Europa League run this season.
Many Premier League clubs are interested in signing him after seeing his performances, but Manchester City were the early frontrunners. As they want to acquire the midfielder as a crucial long-term acquisition, City reportedly have another strategy in the works after having an £80 million offer turned down. The Guardian reports, however, that Manchester United are still very much in the hunt and are certain they can persuade Anderson to pick Old Trafford over the Etihad. United officials think the midfielder hasn’t decided anything yet, so they’re keeping an option open for a possible hijack of his transfer.
With a busy summer of squad rebuilding under their belts, Manchester United is confident. The club has already reached an agreement with Atalanta to acquire Brazilian midfielder Ederson for £35 million. Ederson is likely to arrive after his World Cup obligations with Brazil. In light of recent departures and possible exits, newly appointed head coach Michael Carrick is also keen on adding to the midfield reinforcements. With Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s potential departure as well, the team is in desperate need of fresh midfielders.
Matheus Fernandes of West Ham, Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United, Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, and Carlos Baleba of Brighton are all midfielders that United have been keeping tabs on. It is believed, nevertheless, that Anderson is the club’s main priority. After signing Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in 2024 for £35 million, the midfielder signed a five-year contract.
In the time after, he became known all over the world for his stellar play, and he quickly rose to prominence as one of the Premier League’s most reliable young midfielders. Recent comments from ex-Manchester City defender Micah Richards indicated that City are still in the driver’s seat for Anderson, with Richards citing City’s stability and strength of team as reasons. He did, however, concede that the player’s selection was influenced by the allure of Liverpool, Manchester United, and other elite clubs.
