Nottingham Forest are demanding a Premier League record fee to sell Elliot Anderson, with Manchester City leading the chase and Manchester United opting out due to the prohibitive cost.
Forest's Stance on Anderson
Forest have rejected a second offer from Manchester City, reported to be worth £106 million plus £15 million in bonuses for the 23-year-old England midfielder. According to the Daily Mail, Forest are holding out for a package of up to £130 million, comprising £110 million upfront and £20 million in bonuses.
Despite the rebuffed approaches, Anderson has made no secret of his desire to move to City, and there is growing confidence that an agreement will be reached this summer.
Record-Breaking Potential
If City secure Anderson for £130 million, it would set a new Premier League transfer record, surpassing the £125 million Liverpool paid for Alexander Isak last summer. It would also make Anderson the third most expensive player in history, behind Neymar (£198 million) and Kylian Mbappe (£166 million).
Manchester United's Decision
Manchester United had shown interest in Anderson but have decided not to rival City, deeming the asking price too high. They will now pursue alternative midfield targets.
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes sits at the top of their wish list, though the Hammers are demanding around £80 million for the 21-year-old despite their relegation to the Championship.
United have already sealed a deal for Atalanta's Ederson for £35 million plus £3.8 million in add-ons, but they are keen to add at least one more midfielder, possibly two, ahead of their return to the Champions League.
Other Targets
United have registered an interest in Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, who has been training with England but is set to return home before the World Cup. They also admire Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni, though he is expected to stay following Jose Mourinho's appointment as manager.
With Casemiro departing on a free transfer and Manuel Ugarte poised to leave, Kobbie Mainoo is currently the only recognised senior central midfielder at the club. However, United are keen to avoid hasty decisions and will take time to bolster their squad.
