Manchester City have reportedly reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest for the transfer of England international midfielder Elliot Anderson in a deal that would shatter the club's existing transfer record. The reigning Premier League champions are understood to have secured Anderson for a fee believed to be in the region of £116 million, a straight offer without any additional clauses.
This substantial investment highlights City's intent to reinforce their midfield options following the departure of captain Bernardo Silva, who recently completed a move to Real Madrid. Anderson, 23, had emerged as City's primary target for their midfield rebuild, with the club demonstrating a strong willingness to meet Forest's considerable valuation after an initial bid of £106 million, potentially rising to £120 million, was rejected.
The reported £116 million fee would surpass the £100 million City paid for Jack Grealish in 2021, making Anderson their most expensive signing to date. However, it falls short of the British transfer record, which stands at £125 million for Alexander Isak's move from Newcastle to Liverpool last summer. Manchester United were also understood to have shown interest in Anderson, but City's decisive action appears to have sealed the deal.
Anderson is currently with the England squad competing at the World Cup in the United States, raising questions regarding the timing and location of his medical examination and the finalisation of the transfer. His arrival would significantly increase City's spending over the 2025 and 2026 transfer windows, bringing their outlay to approximately £550 million. Forest, who acquired Anderson for £35 million two years ago, stand to make a considerable profit from this sale.
Beyond Anderson, Manchester City are also said to be exploring options for a second central midfielder this summer, with Newcastle's Sandro Tonali reportedly among those of interest. Off the pitch, City are also progressing with the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new manager, following talks with Chelsea regarding compensation for the Italian, who is set to replace Pep Guardiola.