Elliot Anderson looks set to realise his Champions League wish with Manchester City this summer despite strong interest from the other side of the city. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has been strongly linked with a departure from the City Ground.
Manchester United were keen on the 23-year-old as manager Michael Carrick looked to add to his squad with a huge transfer. However, the club's hierarchy are not prepared to meet the £100 million valuation for Anderson, which has given City a clear path to swoop in and push for his signature.
It is believed City are growing increasingly confident of landing the midfielder despite Pep Guardiola's recent departure. Enzo Maresca is expected to replace the Spaniard at the Etihad and has given the thumbs up to signing the 23-year-old.
The England international has had an outstanding season and looks set to depart Forest this summer. City can also offer Anderson something he has long been chasing.
The Premier League giants have once again secured their place in the Champions League next season, and the midfielder previously expressed his longing to compete in the elite tournament once more.
"I'm desperate to be there again," Anderson said in April 2025. "It was a really proud moment playing in the Champions League and to be honest I never thought I'd be playing in my first season away from Newcastle, but I think if we keep going the way we're going and do what we've done all season then I think we've got a good chance."
The 23-year-old featured twice in the Champions League for Newcastle during the 2023/24 season. Forest appeared destined for a top four finish the following campaign but ultimately secured Europa League qualification, progressing to the semi-finals this term.
Now, he could shine on the biggest stage with City if he secures a move to Manchester. Guardiola will not enjoy working with Anderson as he exits the club this summer but is confident the club will continue to succeed.
Speaking after the final-day loss to Aston Villa, the departing boss said: "Any trophy we win we don't take for granted. We won a final against Arsenal and another against Chelsea. I would not say there are not good teams.
"We fought a team like Aston Villa who won the Europa League and are a top team. All I would like to say to the fans is every single step, enjoy everything that you do. Don't wait to win the Champions League to be happy, enjoy the process.
"I know the players here they will do it. I know it. When the club tells me which one it is [his successor] I will call him. I will tell him the same like I said yesterday: be yourself.
"The club will support you unconditionally, which is the biggest compliment. All the managers that have been here have been lucky with Txiki and now Hugo, Ferran, with all the work he's done, and especially Khaldoon.
"Be yourself, you will be protected in the bad moments, more than at any other club."
