Manchester City have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to acquire midfielder Elliot Anderson. The deal is reported to be valued at £116m, which would set a new transfer record for City and make Anderson the most expensive British player in history. Forest has granted permission for Anderson to undergo a medical examination.
Anderson is currently with the England squad in the USA for the World Cup, where he has started in both of their group stage matches. Due to England‘s upcoming match against Panama on Saturday, discussions are ongoing regarding the timing of his medical. Personal terms are not anticipated to pose any issues.
Anderson’s Impact and Future Role
The 23-year-old midfielder has been a primary target for Manchester City this summer. He is contracted to Nottingham Forest until 2029. City reportedly admires Anderson’s development since he joined Forest from Newcastle in 2024, and the relationship between the two clubs is considered strong.
During England‘s World Cup preparation camp, coach Thomas Tuchel described Anderson as the “full package” and expressed confidence that the interest from City would not distract him. Tuchel stated that Anderson is a key player for the national team.
Anderson’s former English and PE teacher, Jonathan Roys, noted his hard work and determination, highlighting his versatility in various sports during his school years. He is seen as an inspiration for a new generation of players.
Teammate’s Perspective and Forest’s Plans
England teammate Jarell Quansah believes that Anderson’s impending move will not affect his focus on the World Cup. Quansah stated that Anderson is fully concentrated on winning the tournament for England. Anderson has established himself as a key figure in Tuchel’s squad since his debut in September. He impressed in England‘s 4-2 victory over Croatia and also started in the 0-0 draw against Ghana.
Anderson has thrived in a deeper midfield role, a position he played for England Under-21s under coach Lee Carsley during last summer’s European Championship triumph. Quansah described him as a very versatile player with attributes suitable for the England squad and what the manager seeks.
In anticipation of Anderson’s potential departure, Nottingham Forest is looking to sign two central midfielders. The club had initially planned to add one new option, but with the progress of Anderson’s transfer to Manchester City, they are now aiming for two players in that position. Forest has an interest in Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall and Inter Milan‘s Davide Frattesi, who is valued at approximately €30m. They also maintain a long-standing interest in Celtic‘s Arne Engels, whom they attempted to sign in January.
Anderson’s profile as an all-round midfielder is considered undisputed, with his off-the-ball work being particularly noted. He is seen as a player who can fit into Enzo Maresca‘s system at Manchester City, capable of playing as a single pivot or alongside players like Declan Rice. His versatility is highlighted as an important asset for City, especially considering Bernardo Silva‘s exit this summer and ongoing speculation about Rodri‘s future.
Anderson’s transfer is expected to be finalised once he completes his medical, which is scheduled for when the England team arrives in the Tri-State Area.
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Source: skysports.com
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”