Chelsea have been linked with a new midfield target in the transfer rumour mill this week, so it’s fascinating to hear that Blues captain Reece James raved about him just a month ago.
The reality is the Blues are blessed with a lot of quality central midfielders in their squad right now. Even so, Enzo Maresca’s side are tipped to bring in more midfield profiles in the transfer market.
Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia and Andrey Santos provide excellent options in the centre of the park at Stamford Bridge. Unfortunately, Dario Essugo could be unavailable until January because of his current injury problem.
Elliot Anderson playing for England against Serbia in a World Cup qualifier.
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Chelsea linked with Elliot Anderson
This week, Chelsea have been linked with Elliot Anderson, the Nottingham Forest and England star. Apparently, Manchester City are lining up a £75m raid for the central midfielder ahead of next summer, but they will face competition from Chelsea for his signature.
The 22-year-old talent, who came through Newcastle United’s academy, has gone from strength to strength since his move to the City Ground in 2024 to play for Forest. It’s even led to him forcing his way into the England camp recently.
If you look at Chelsea’s transfer policy under the current ownership, Anderson certainly ticks a lot of boxes as a young Englishman with huge potential.
Reece James during Chelsea's Premier League match against Brighton.
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What Reece James said about Elliot Anderson
Last month, Chelsea skipper Reece James, 25, was in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad alongside Anderson.
On 6 September, Anderson impressed on his senior England debut in a 2-0 win against Andorra. He followed it up three days later during the 5-0 victory against Serbia with another start and another excellent display at the base of midfield.
After Anderson’s performance against Andorra, England teammate James praised the Forest ace. He said via TNT Sports: “He is a phenomenal player. He fully deserves to be here, and he showed that with his performance today.
“I have played against him and I can see what he can do in the Premier League, the toughest league in the world. I thought his call-up would come sooner.”
If Chelsea decide to ramp up interest in signing Anderson in 2026, James’ words should be ringing in their ears.