EXCLUSIVE Manchester United and Manchester City are set for a summer bidding war over Nottingham Forest's England international Elliot Anderson, with both clubs making the midfielder one of their main transfer targets
13:00, 27 Feb 2026Updated 13:00, 27 Feb 2026
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 26: Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Nottingham Forest FC and Fenerbahce SK at City Ground on February 26, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Elliot Anderson is a target for Manchester United and Manchester City(Image: Gareth Copley, Getty Images)
Arch rivals Manchester United and Manchester City are set to lock horns in a contest to sign Elliot Anderson this summer.
The neighbours have both identified the England and Nottingham Forest star as one of their primary transfer objectives. Since transferring from Newcastle to Forest for £35m in 2024, Anderson has emerged as one of Europe's top midfielders.
The 23-year-old has since cemented his place in the England squad - and is set to feature in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup plans this summer. Both United and City are eager to bolster their midfield this summer - and will find themselves embroiled in a bidding war for the £75m-rated prodigy.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at City Ground on February 22, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Elliot Anderson looks set to leave Nottingham Forest this summer(Image: Carl Recine, Getty Images)
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
However, with the World Cup commencing in June, it remains uncertain whether either club can secure a deal prior to that.
Anderson would prefer to have his future settled before heading to the tournament. Yet he recognises his value could escalate even further if he contributes to England's success in North America.
Anderson acknowledges the possibility of facing relegation with Forest this season. Regardless of the outcome, he'll have his choice of elite clubs and feels prepared to ascend to the next level.
Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source.Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings
United must clinch Champions League qualification to stand any chance of outbidding City for Anderson's services.
Forest will be compelled to cash in on Anderson should they face relegation back to the Championship.
Anderson has declined to comment on his future and remains committed to aiding Forest's survival bid.
Article continues below
He stated: "It's been a big two years. I think I've done pretty well, to be honest, in the time I've been here, on and off the pitch.
"I think I've matured as a person as well. Thanks to the club, really, for giving me that platform, going out there and playing and letting me do my stuff."