Elliot Anderson is undoubtedly the most sought-after midfielder this summer, with Manchester United very keen to make him the centre-piece of the midfield rebuild.
With the impending departure of Casemiro this summer, Manchester United are going to have a midfield rebuild.
For this planned overhaul of the position, United have three priority targets, all of whom have Premier League experience, with Elliot Anderson topping the list.
Anderson has been the target number one for months, but there is competition with Man City for his signature. But now United have an advantage.
IF Elliot Anderson signs for Man City, who would be your TOP PRIORITY midfield alternative?
Elliot Anderson knee slide for Nottingham Forest.
Photo by Lee Parker – CameraSport via Getty Images
Manchester United have already done work to sign Elliot Anderson
This summer, United could hypothetically turn the midfield into a title-winning group if the right moves are made.
Anderson would be a brilliant start to this revamp, and now Ben Jacobs has suggested that United holds an advantage over City.
The journalist told The United Stand that while City are pushing for Anderson on the player side, United have already done the legwork of getting the midfielder’s approval and interest.
More United News
This is a key step, with Nottingham Forest not yet able to set a price for Anderson, considering it will depend on whether they survive this relegation fight or not.
United needs to take advantage of having made these agreements with Anderson, moving quickly to appoint a permanent manager and give the player something he can commit to.
With City potentially losing both Rodri and Pep Guardiola this summer, this might be the first time United can look like a more stable club in years.
Should Manchester United break the transfer record in summer 2026? Who should we target?
Who has been Manchester United's best and worst big money signings?
Record transfers graphic
Getty Images
United make Sandro Tonali the top target ahead of Anderson
While Anderson has been United’s number one for months, interest in Tonali is on the rise, and this could mean he is set to be favoured.
According to the Daily Mail, Tonali is likely to emerge this summer as the main target for Ineos.
The report explains that United are now expected to formally approach Newcastle at the end of this season for Tonali.
This comes after reports that Tonali has asked to leave Newcastle if they don’t qualify for the Champions League this season.
Tonali is wanted by Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester City. But now United are moving to the front of the queue in a deal that could be all but wrapped up by the time the season ends at this rate.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox