Manchester United are 'seriously' pushing in the race to sign Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson ahead of Man City this summer, according to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.
The Reds have made the England international their number one target for the upcoming transfer window, with INEOS keen to rebuild the midfield as they prepare for the departure of Casemiro, as well as potentially Manuel Ugarte too.
But they face stiff competition for his signature from local rivals Man City, who are keen to replace the outgoing Bernardo Silva, but they are not giving up in their pursuit despite the player reportedly preferring to go to the Etihad Stadium.
Man Utd 'Seriously' Pushing for Anderson
elliot anderson
Anderson, who has been described as 'one of the best midfielders in the Premier League' by Thomas Tuchel, is expected to leave the City Ground this summer after a breakout campaign, despite their major struggles for form, which has left them in a relegation battle.
The 23-year-old is under contract until 2029 with Forest, and there is no release clause in his deal, leaving Forest in complete control of negotiations over his future.
A move is expected to happen though, and it's understood that Forest are holding out for a club-record sale to let him go, as they demand a fee of between £100-120m from the Manchester giants.
While Man Utd are 'seriously in the race' for him, even at that price point, it's reported that City are currently prioritising trying to convince Rodri to sign a new contract at the Etihad instead. Neither club are believed to have made direct contact with Forest about a move at this stage.
Man Utd Want to Build Around Anderson
Elliot Anderson
It's evident that with Casemiro leaving, Man Utd want a new midfield they can build their future around. Anderson has been identified as that player, and alongside Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes would provide an excellent technical base, while also an engine to ensure the team can win the ball back.
City have the advantage because of Pep Guardiola and the fact they are always competing for trophies at the highest level, but promising Anderson a starting spot and being the face of the new project may be enough to make a statement and get in ahead of them.
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