Nottingham Forest FC v Aston Villa FC - UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Semi-Final First Leg - Source: Getty
Nottingham Forest FC v Aston Villa FC - UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Semi-Final First Leg - Source: Getty
Manchester United are weighing up an offer for Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare as a potential alternative for Elliot Anderson, as per reports.
The Red Devils were heavily linked with Anderson earlier this week, but their interest in the England international have reportedly cooled due to Nottingham Forest's valuation of the player.
Their local rivals Manchester City reportedly also have strong interest in Anderson but have had two bids rejected by Forest, with the latter said to be worth £106 million up front with potential add-ons taking it in excess of £120 million.
While United’s admiration for Anderson is well documented, they are not willing to enter into a bidding war with City that would likely see the fee rise to £130 million. With a move for Anderson now looking increasingly difficult, Manchester United have now shifted their focus to other midfield options, and Sangare has emerged as one such candidate.
According to Foot Mercato, Sangare is attracting significant interest from United, and the club are now preparing an offer to secure the services of the Mali international. It is said that the Red Devils have identified the need to recruit at least two to three midfielders following Casemiro’s departure.
While Sangare’s market value is estimated to be around £34 million, Lens are reportedly holding out for a higher fee. United are, however, unlikely to be alone in their hunt for the midfielder’s signature, with the report adding that around ten European clubs, including Premier League clubs, are also in the running.
Sangare enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in Ligue 1 last season and was subsequently named to the team of the season. His contributions were vital to Lens's second-placed finish in the French top flight.
Manchester United told to sign Anderson or Sandro Tonali
As rumours continue to swirl about Manchester United’s interest in strengthening their midfield, Danny Murphy has urged the Old Trafford hierarchy to do everything possible to sign Elliot or Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali.
Murphy reckons both players have the qualities needed to play for a club of United’s stature.
“The two obvious ones, for me, would be Elliot Anderson or Sandro Tonali,” Murphy told NetBet football earlier this week. “Both players have wonderful energy and great tenacity. They are the perfect type of Premier League midfielders who would improve United.”
The Red Devils will look to compete on all fronts next season after finishing third in the Premier League table last season.