Elliot Anderson's outstanding 2025/26 campaign has turned him into one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League, with Nottingham Forest now facing an uphill battle to keep hold of one of their most valuable assets.
The England international enjoyed a fine season at the City Ground, proving to be one of the driving forces behind Forest's successful fight against the drop.
His strength, versatility and ability to influence games in both attacking and defensive situations has attracted the attention of clubs across the country.
What started as quiet praise has quickly escalated into a fierce transfer race.
Man City have been heavily linked with Anderson in recent months and have already had a bid rejected, with Enzo Maresca the new manager leading the Sky Blues' search for home-grown talent.
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The Forest midfielder ticks many boxes.
At just 23 years old, he already has valuable Premier League experience while still having plenty of room for improvement.
Man United are also strong fans of Anderson amid their search for another elite midfielder after Ederson.
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The Red Devils are understood to be keen to overhaul their midfield options and Anderson's profile makes him an attractive target. His ability to operate in multiple positions in midfield, combined with his relentless work rate, has reportedly impressed the decision-makers at Old Trafford.
For Forest fans, the growing interest has been flattering and concerning.
Anderson's performance has shown why top clubs are taking notice, but losing such a powerful player will represent a huge blow ahead of another important season.
The midfielder has become a centerpiece for Vitor Pereira and remains a fan favourite.
Now, the transfer saga seems to be entering an important phase.
Nottingham Forest eyeing Man City's second bid as £80m-plus bid made
According to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook, City are preparing to return with a second bid for Anderson after seeing their first approach fail to find success.
More importantly, City are reportedly willing to break the £80million mark for the Forest star.
That figure underlines how highly they rate the midfielder.
City are rarely afraid to invest heavily when they identify a player they believe can improve the squad, and Anderson now appears to have risen to the top of their wish list.
The size of the potential fee would make him one of the most expensive English midfielders in recent memory.
In the forest, the situation presents a difficult balancing act.
An offer worth more than £80 million would be too difficult for most clubs to ignore, no matter how valuable the player. At the same time, replacing someone who is already an important part of the team can be a big challenge.
Crook's update also suggests that the race is not entirely over.
Although City are currently considered the favorites to complete the deal, United are reportedly keeping a close eye on what is happening.
The Old Trafford club have not given up hope of bringing Anderson to Manchester themselves, although there is an admission that City currently hold the strongest position.
That leaves Forest facing an anxious few weeks.
The club is always under pressure to sell and will know that Anderson's value increases as interest grows. Every new development strengthens their bargaining position.
Whether the City ultimately meets Forest's demands remains to be seen.
Nottingham Forest are trying to reach a 'definitive agreement' for the signing in the coming days
Tricky Trees need to cover a small amount of space.
