Manchester City are prioritising a move for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson this summer as they look to make a major midfield signing to kickstart the Enzo Maresca era. The England international has long been City’s primary target in that area, with captain Bernardo Silva having said his goodbyes after nine years at the club earlier this week.
City Dismiss Fernandez Links
City sources maintain that they are not looking to pursue a deal for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, despite his close relationship with ex-Blues boss Maresca. Anderson, part of Thomas Tuchel’s squad that flies out to Florida for their pre-World Cup training camp next week, is believed to favour a switch to the Etihad Stadium over other suitors – including Manchester United.
But Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis values the 23-year-old at more than £100million, with no agreement in place between the two clubs. It has been suggested that Fernandez - who would cost a similar amount to Anderson – was a likely target, yet the full focus is on Anderson.
Anderson's Rise to Prominence
Elliot Anderson's performances for Nottingham Forest have made him one of the first names on the England teamsheet under Thomas Tuchel. His consistent displays have attracted interest from several top clubs, but City are leading the chase.
Midfield Rebuild Under Maresca
City want Rodri to sign a new contract and have made an offer to the Spaniard, who is entering the final 12 months of his contract. However, there are question marks over the future of Nico Gonzalez, the £50million signing from Porto last year. Gonzalez fell out of favour with former manager Pep Guardiola and has started just two Premier League games since the beginning of January. He was left out of two squads altogether in the final weeks of the campaign.
With Silva departing and Gonzalez's future uncertain, City are eager to reinforce their midfield. Anderson is seen as the ideal candidate to inject energy and creativity into the engine room, and the club is prepared to break the bank to secure his signature.
