Nottingham Forest are reportedly valuing Elliot Anderson at over £100 million, a fee that some at Manchester United might consider excessive. However, a closer look at the midfielder's performances this season suggests he could be worth every penny.
Anderson's display against Aston Villa in the Europa League semi-final was a masterclass, despite a controversial tackle on Ollie Watkins that many felt warranted a red card. He topped the charts for touches, successful passes, passes into the final third, possessions won, fouls won, and tackles won in that match.
Former player Stan Collymore described Anderson as a 'Rolls Royce' who will be England captain. At 23, he has already shown immense mental fortitude, having recently dealt with the tragic loss of his mother.
Comparisons have been drawn with Declan Rice, who moved to Arsenal for £105 million at the same age. Anderson has won possession 10+ times in a match on 12 occasions this season, five more than any other Premier League player.
While Anderson may wish to continue his development at Forest, especially if they secure Champions League football, the interest from top clubs will be hard to resist. For Manchester United, paying £100 million for a player of his calibre would be a sound investment.
