Manchester City are confident they have won the race to sign Elliott Anderson, according to an exclusive report from The Mirror. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has been identified as a primary transfer target not only for the Citizens but also for Manchester United, with Chelsea and Tottenham closely monitoring the situation. However, sources at the Etihad are reportedly convinced they have made significant progress in discussions with the midfielder's representatives and can consider the player a sure new addition, as Anderson himself has expressed a strong desire to join the club.
The Mirror claims that Manchester City plans to pay £65 million for the player, a figure significantly lower than the previously rumored £100 million. The Citizens are keen to act swiftly and efficiently to finalize the transfer immediately after the season concludes and before the start of the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. By doing so, they aim to secure one of the most promising midfielders in England and mitigate the risk of his price increasing or complications arising around the deal. Anderson arrived at Nottingham Forest from Newcastle in the summer of 2024 for £20 million but quickly established himself as one of the team's key players. His outstanding performances for the club have also earned him call-ups to the national team, and he is almost certainly expected to be part of Thomas Tuchel's squad for the 2026 World Cup.