Elliot Anderson appeared on the latest Nottingham Forest podcast when a potential transfer to Manchester United was discussed with two players who had spells at both clubs.
After impressing for Nottingham Forest, Elliot Anderson emerged as a Manchester United target because it’s inevitable that Ruben Amorim will reinforce his midfield department in 2026.
It was clear to see why there is such a demand for new midfield signings after United’s 1-0 defeat to Everton on Monday. Even though the Toffees were down to 10 men for most of the match, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro were poor in the middle of the pitch and unable to grab the game by the scruff of the neck.
Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is another target, and United failed to sign Carlos Baleba in the summer.
However, respected journalist Andy Mitten believes Anderson is United’s top target going into the new year.
United have many options, but it seems like Anderson’s popularity is rising every time he plays for Forest. The England international played a key role in their 3-0 win over Liverpool on Saturday.
Viv Anderson in a Manchester United shirt
10 Jul1991: Portrait of Viv Anderson of Manchester United during a photo-call held at Old Trafford in manchester, England. Mandatory Credit: Ben Radford/Allsport
Viv Anderson and Gary Birtles share Man Utd experiences with Elliot Anderson
Forest are bound to do everything they can to keep Anderson, but every player has a price.
They might resist offers in January because it’s midway through the season, but United are just one of the clubs linked with signing Elliot right now.
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After a big win over Liverpool at the weekend, Anderson appeared on the club’s official podcast along with two retired professionals who played for United as well as Forest.
Viv Anderson and Gary Birtles shared their experiences at United, and it seemed like an attempt to put Anderson off wanting to move to Old Trafford.
Firstly, Viv warned the 23-year-old that it was ‘difficult’ at United, telling the official Nottingham Forest podcast: “It’s always difficult, don’t you think? When you’ve got players who’ve played there, want to achieve things.
“I remember going to Man United and they said, ‘well, you’re never going to be good as Best, Law and Charlton’.
“So you go, well, thanks for that.”
Viv was Sir Alex Ferguson’s first signing as United manager before going on to make 66 appearances for the club.
Birtles made 64 appearances for United and described his time as a ‘nightmare’ between 1980 and 1982.
“Yeah, without a doubt,” Birtles said.
“It’s there for everybody to see. And you know, you would say to Elliot, he’s come in there. It’s not always easy to change clubs and be a success straight away. I know that from going to Manchester United. I had an absolute nightmare.”
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Nottingham Forest stance on Elliot Anderson transfer in January
Anderson has had a brilliant season so far, establishing himself as an England international and attracting attention from United.
According to the Daily Mail, Forest are determined to reject any approach for Anderson during the January transfer window.
Anderson signed for Forest from Newcastle in a deal worth £35 million in the summer of 2024. He has yet to miss a league game this term, with one goal and one assist to his name.