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The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway tonight, with anticipation building ahead of the tournament’s opening matches across North America.
Away from the World Cup, the summer transfer window is also gathering momentum, with several high-profile players being linked with major moves ahead of next season.
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Real Madrid have reportedly seen a bid rejected for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, who has also been linked with Arsenal and Barcelona.
Manchester United are also assessing options at left-back ahead of the new campaign. Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall remains on the club’s radar, while Fulham’s Antonee Robinson has emerged as another potential target.
With Tyrell Malacia set to leave this summer and Patrick Dorgu expected to be used in a more advanced role under Michael Carrick, Luke Shaw is currently the club’s only senior left-back.
In midfield, Elliot Anderson is attracting interest from Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City following an impressive season with Nottingham Forest.
City’s second bid for the England international, worth up to £120million, has been rejected. The offer consisted of an initial £106million plus add-ons, with Forest having already turned down a previous proposal.
Anderson is understood to favour a move to the Etihad Stadium over Old Trafford, while personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block.
According to BBC Sport, Manchester United are effectively out of the race after deciding against entering a bidding war and maintaining their policy of pursuing players fully committed to joining the club.
Anderson is with the England squad for the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, although discussions between clubs can continue during the tournament.
The midfielder featured in England’s 3-0 victory over Costa Rica on Wednesday in their final warm-up match before opening their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.
The 23-year-old was one of Nottingham Forest’s standout performers last campaign, helping the club reach the Europa League semi-finals and avoid Premier League relegation.
Since joining Forest from Newcastle United in 2024, Anderson has racked up 92 appearances for the club, scoring six goals and establishing himself as one of their key players.
Manchester United have already agreed a fee with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson and remain in the market for additional midfield reinforcements ahead of the new season.
West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes continues to attract interest from Man United, with Arsenal also said to be monitoring the player.