Nottingham Forest have taken a firm stance on the future of their prized asset, Elliot Anderson, by definitively ruling out a January sale amidst serious interest from Manchester United.
Forest's Firm Stance on Mid-Season Sale
According to reports from The Telegraph, the Midlands club will not be tempted into cashing in on the 23-year-old England midfielder when the transfer window reopens in a matter of weeks. This decision comes as new head coach Sean Dyche attempts to steer the team's season in a positive direction, with Anderson considered integral to those plans.
The club is, however, anticipating a fresh wave of interest next summer, with Manchester United and Anderson's former club, Newcastle United, known to be among his keen admirers.
United's Ambitious £100m Move
Anderson has been installed as one of the prime targets for Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who is plotting a major overhaul of his midfield options. A staggering £100m price tag has been touted for the player, although it remains uncertain whether the Old Trafford club would be willing or able to meet such a valuation in the upcoming window.
Anderson only signed for Forest last summer in a £15m move from Newcastle, penning a long-term five-year contract at the City Ground. Crucially, the report indicates that there is no buy-back or sell-on clause in the agreement that brought him to Nottingham, giving Forest full control over his future.
High Praise from Football Icons
The midfielder's impressive development has not gone unnoticed by some of the game's most respected figures. Newcastle legend Alan Shearer believes Anderson's departure from St James' Park, while difficult for the Magpies due to PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules), was ultimately the "best thing that happened to him".
Shearer stated, "He wouldn't have been able to do what he has done and is doing at Newcastle. Good for him. I'm delighted for him. He's gone from being a bit-part player at Newcastle to being one of the main guys at Forest and one of England's."
Further endorsement has come from England boss Thomas Tuchel, who recently hailed Anderson as "one of the best midfielders in the Premier League". Tuchel praised his effectiveness, calling him a "very complete and mobile midfielder" who has been "nothing but impressive" for the national side.
Ultimately, the final valuation for the player will be set by Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, and it is understood that the asking price could yet rise beyond the £100m mark, especially if his fine form continues.
