Nottingham Forest have issued a stern hands-off warning to potential suitors for their star midfielder Elliot Anderson, slapping a staggering £100million price tag on the England international.
Midfield Overhaul Sparks Transfer Battle
Manchester United, under manager Ruben Amorim, have identified the 23-year-old as a prime target for a major midfield overhaul. However, their pursuit faces a significant financial hurdle with Forest's colossal valuation, raising doubts over whether the Red Devils can fund such a deal.
Compounding the issue, Forest are reportedly unwilling to sell Anderson during the January transfer window, as they focus on improving their fortunes under the guidance of manager Sean Dyche.
Summer Move Tipped as a 'Sure Bet'
Despite the current stalemate, former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster believes a summer transfer is a distinct possibility. Foster, speaking to talkSPORT, heaped praise on Anderson, describing his work rate as "phenomenal" and the potential signing as "about as sure a bet as you can get."
"He's so reliable and he's absolute quality all over the pitch," Foster stated. "Forest wouldn't want to get rid, but... if there's a couple of teams in for him in the summer, you can't blame him for wanting to go."
Newcastle United, the club Anderson left for Forest in a £15million move last summer, are also believed to be keen on re-signing the midfielder, setting the stage for a potential bidding war.
High-Profile Endorsements for Forest Star
Anderson's rise has not gone unnoticed at the highest levels. Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has suggested that leaving St James' Park was the "best thing that happened to him," allowing him to develop into a mainstay at Forest and an England international.
Echoing this sentiment, England boss Thomas Tuchel has hailed Anderson as "one of the best midfielders in the Premier League," praising his complete and mobile playing style.
The final decision on any transfer will rest with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Anderson's value is further protected by the five-year contract he signed in July 2024, a deal that could see his asking price rise even beyond the current £100 million mark.