Manchester United are reportedly drawing up an offer for Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare as a potential alternative to Elliot Anderson, after Manchester City tabled a bid worth in excess of £120 million for the Nottingham Forest star.
City's Record Bid for Anderson
Manchester City have put forward a verbal offer of £106 million, with an additional £15 million in potential add-ons for the England international. Such a deal would surpass the £105 million Arsenal paid for Declan Rice back in 2023. Both City and United had Anderson amongst their top midfield priorities heading into this summer's transfer window. However, the 23-year-old is understood to prefer a move to City, who are now working to thrash out an agreement with Forest.
United's Alternative Target
As a result, United appear ready to shift their attention towards alternative midfield targets. Sangare has emerged as one such option, with Foot Mercato reporting that United have been impressed by his progress and long-term potential, with a formal bid now being put together. His market value is believed to sit at around £34 million, though the French club are reportedly holding out for a considerably higher figure. United are also unlikely to find themselves alone in their pursuit of the player this summer.
Sangare's Breakout Season
The 23-year-old has attracted significant attention following a stellar debut season in Ligue 1 after joining for just £6.9 million. The box-to-box midfielder has been labelled a 'monster' in transition, having played an instrumental role in Lens' outstanding second-placed finish in the French top-flight. Sangare recently spoke with RFI about how his game has developed, noting that he has sharpened his defensive capabilities. He said: "I love going to defend against the opponent. I really made progress on that... I really like this aspect of my game, because it really makes me happy to go get balls."
Ederson Deal Also Progressing
Atalanta midfielder Ederson is poised to become Michael Carrick's first summer acquisition. United have struck a £35 million agreement, with the Brazilian set to put pen to paper on a four-year contract, with the option of an additional year. United had been hopeful of wrapping up the transfer in early July, but that timeline looks set to be pushed back after the 26-year-old received a call-up to the Brazil squad as a replacement for the injured Wesley.
