Manchester City appear to be leading the race to acquire Nottingham Forest’s dynamic midfielder Elliot Anderson this coming summer, according to sources close to Sky Sports News. The English international, who turned 23 this year, has attracted interest from several heavyweight clubs, notably Manchester United and Arsenal, yet insiders are increasingly convinced that the Etihad will be his next destination. Anderson’s rise has been noteworthy since his move from Newcastle United to Forest in July 2024, a transfer that fetched a reported £35 million.
His performances in the Premier League have placed him firmly on the radar of a host of top‑flight teams, especially as he continues to develop into one of the league’s most compelling central midfield options. The question now is whether a deal can be finalised before the World Cup, where the England manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to rely heavily on Anderson’s talents, or whether negotiations will extend into the post‑tournament window. The midfielder is currently tied to Forest until June 2029, and his market value is projected to be substantial.
He joins a burgeoning cohort of elite midfielders who could be on the move next transfer period, a group that includes the likes of Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and possibly Aurelian Tchouameni. Such a concentration of high‑calibre talent makes the upcoming market one of the most intriguing in recent memory. City’s admiration for Anderson stems from the noticeable progression he has shown since arriving at the City Ground.
Reports suggest that the relationship between Manchester City and Nottingham Forest remains amicable, which could smooth the path for any potential deal. Meanwhile, the club’s midfield roster is poised for possible reshuffling this summer. Uncertainty looms over the futures of Mateo Kovačić and Nico González, while it has already been confirmed that Bernardo Silva will depart upon the expiry of his contract in June.
Beyond the midfield, City are also scouting other areas of the squad. Sky Sports News has disclosed two additional targets: RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande and Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi. Diomande is regarded as one of the hottest prospects on the market, attracting interest from Liverpool, Bayern Munich and other European heavyweights. Kroupi, meanwhile, impressed during his first season with Bournemouth, netting 11 goals in 29 Premier League appearances and establishing himself as a promising young forward.
Despite these potential signings, City already possess depth up front. Players such as Savinho, who operates alongside Jeremy Doku on the left wing, and Omar Marmoush, who serves as a backup centre‑forward to Erling Haaland, provide ample options. The club is also monitoring the right‑back position, with reports indicating that they are keeping tabs on Feyenoord defender Givairo Read among other candidates.
Laura Hunter of Sky Sports offered an insightful comparison between Anderson and City’s current midfield anchor, Rodri. She noted that while both players share the profile of a central midfielder who can dictate the tempo and break up opposition play, their specific roles differ due to the tactical demands of their respective teams. Anderson is recognised for his aggressive tackling – he ranks as the third‑most prolific tackler in the division – and his ability to win duels, boasting a league‑leading 270 successful challenges, more than double Rodri’s 106.
Conversely, Rodri excels in possession‑based football, demonstrating an elite ability to retain the ball under pressure and recycle possession efficiently. Since recovering from an ACL injury last season, Rodri has become less inclined to carry the ball forward, a task at which Anderson thrives.
Additionally, Anderson’s availability is a notable asset; at 23, he offers a level of durability that his older counterpart, the 29‑year‑old Spaniard, may not consistently match. The notion of a Rodri‑Anderson partnership is tantalising for City’s manager Pep Guardiola.
The two could operate in tandem or rotate, providing a blend of defensive tenacity and composure on the ball. However, history warns of the risks associated with high‑profile midfield acquisitions that fail to meet expectations. Kalvin Phillips serves as a cautionary example of a player who arrived with great promise but struggled to adapt. Similarly, Matheus Nunes had to reinvent himself as a full‑back to remain relevant under Guardiola’s system, highlighting the club’s exacting standards.
In summary, Manchester City’s pursuit of Elliot Anderson appears to be gaining momentum, with the club positioning itself as the frontrunner among several elite suitors. Should the transfer materialise, Anderson could provide the blend of aggression, ball‑winning, and youthful energy that City seeks to reinforce a midfield that may see significant turnover in the coming months. The outcome of the World Cup and the subsequent negotiation window will likely determine whether the Etihad secures his signature, potentially reshaping the landscape of Premier League midfield talent for the 2025‑26 season.