Manchester City have confirmed the club-record signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a straight fee of £116 million. The 23-year-old England midfielder has signed a five-year contract at the Etihad, becoming the most expensive arrival in City's history, eclipsing the £100 million paid to Aston Villa for Jack Grealish in 2021.
Deal details and timing
City struck a deal with Nottingham Forest last month, and Anderson received permission from the Football Association to undergo a medical in New York last week. The transfer adds depth and quality to City's midfield following the departure of Bernardo Silva. Anderson is currently in the United States preparing for England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico on Monday, after helping the Three Lions come from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in the last-32 in Atlanta.
Anderson's rise to prominence
Anderson enjoyed a stellar season for Forest last year, making him one of the hottest properties in world football. He attracted interest from several clubs, including Manchester United, but Old Trafford chiefs were unwilling to meet the fee demanded by Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Anderson joined Forest from Newcastle United for £35 million in 2024 and made 92 appearances for the club, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists. He helped Forest finish seventh in the Premier League in the 2024/25 season and 16th last season, when they also reached the Europa League semi-finals.
Debut likely in Community Shield
Due to his World Cup commitments, Anderson is unlikely to travel on City's summer tour to Asia. His debut could come in the Community Shield against Arsenal at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday, August 16. Anderson is City manager Enzo Maresca's second summer arrival after a deal for rising star Mathys Detourbet from sister club Troyes.
Anderson focused on England
Asked last week if transfer speculation was affecting him, Anderson said: "It's pretty easy really, I'm just focusing on the present, I'm blocking it all out. I've got a plan and it's to perform for England. I'm putting myself in the best position to cross the line and do that."
England boss Thomas Tuchel, who described Anderson as the 'full package' ahead of the World Cup, said: "He's a top player. There's nothing more to say, he's the full package. I'm happy that he's with us on that kind of level and he's a key player for us." Anderson was part of the England team that won the 2025 Under-21 European Championship.
