England manager Thomas Tuchel has addressed the impending transfer of midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, stating that the £116 million deal is likely to be finalised before the Three Lions' World Cup Round of 32 match against DR Congo.
Transfer Details and Medical Update
City and Nottingham Forest have already formally agreed on the transfer, but the 23-year-old still needs to undergo medical tests. While it was initially expected that Anderson would undergo a medical in New York this weekend, sources close to the England camp confirm those checks have not yet taken place. They are now scheduled to occur in Kansas City, where England's training base is located.
Tuchel, speaking ahead of England's next fixture, expressed confidence that the transfer would be sorted before the Round of 32. "I think there's a very high chance the 'thing' is sorted before the Round of 32," he said.
Tuchel Praises Anderson's Impact
The England boss also lauded Anderson's performances and attitude. "It's very impressive, I have to say, the way he plays and the way he trains, he carries himself," Tuchel remarked. "He's still quite young and quite new to our national team and he just plays like he owns the place. He's always there, I think he grew into the tournament after a bit of a difficult start against Croatia but he gets better and better. It's good to have him, he gave green light, medical gave green light and he's without any injury concern about the moment."
Anderson impressed on Saturday as England defeated Panama 2-0 in New Jersey to top Group L. The transfer will make him City's club-record signing and the second-most expensive player in British history, behind Liverpool's £125 million capture of Alexander Isak.
Tuchel Confident in England's Depth
Tuchel also expressed faith in his squad's ability to go deep in the tournament, citing their experience at the highest level. "These players are used to these moments, they play Champions League and Europa League to the end," he said. "They know what it takes. We will step up. The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get. There is no problem growing into a tournament like this. We have strong belief and trust in each other. It is important we keep believing in what we can influence and what we can improve. The most important thing is not to be afraid and be brave."
