Manchester United’s Elliot Anderson chase has taken its hardest turn yet after Manchester City reportedly reached agreement with Nottingham Forest for the England midfielder.
According to The Guardian, City have agreed a £116 million package for Anderson, with the 23-year-old expected to undergo a medical while away with England at the 2026 World Cup. David Ornstein has also reported the agreement, describing the fee as guaranteed with no add-ons.
Manchester City agree to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest in deal worth £116m. Fee guaranteed with no add-ons.
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 25, 2026
Michael Carrick’s Midfield Shortlist Narrows
For United, the significance is not simply missing one target. Anderson had been viewed as a high-energy Premier League-ready option for Michael Carrick’s midfield, and ReadManUtd had already covered how City’s pressure was sharpening the decision.
The price now appears to have moved beyond sensible United territory. With Ederson still expected to arrive from Atalanta and Mateus Fernandes also tracked, Jason Wilcox has to decide quickly whether United respond with another major domestic push or protect the budget for two more controlled additions.
Anderson heading to the Etihad would sting because of the direct Manchester comparison, but walking away at £116 million may still prove the disciplined call. Carrick needs midfield power; United cannot afford another summer defined by chasing a fee rather than a fit.
