Manchester United transfer target Elliot Anderson has made headlines because of his impressive display against arch-rivals Manchester City in the Premier League.
On the same evening as Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat to Newcastle, one silver lining was that Elliot Anderson scored a stunning goal against Manchester City to derail their Premier League title charge.
United have made Anderson a top target as part of the club’s midfield overhaul in 2026, but ironically, their biggest competition for his signature is expected to come from Manchester City.
Anderson has starred against City in Nottingham Forest’s home and away fixtures now, and it seems his latest performance has impressed the football chiefs at the Etihad Stadium.
Elliot Anderson knee slide for Nottingham Forest.
Photo by Lee Parker – CameraSport via Getty Images
Is Elliot Anderson the standout midfield option for Manchester United?
How much would you want United to spend on him this summer…
Elliot Anderson duels
Getty Images
Man could beat Man Utd to Elliot Anderson deal
According to TeamTalk, sources within football circles consider Elliot Anderson to City as a “done deal”.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey said: “For several weeks now, from numerous sources, I am told that Anderson to City is a done deal.
“I am told Hugo Viana picked him out last summer as one he wanted.”
More United News
The report adds that Forest want £90 million for Anderson’s signature in the summer. United are ready to spend big on midfield targets this summer, but it seems Anderson could be headed to cross-city rivals instead.
United fans want Anderson to sign this summer, but it seems Ineos are facing an uphill battle to try and land the 23-year-old midfielder.
You have £100m to spend on a midfielder – who are YOU buying, Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton?
Or is there another realistic player you would sign instead? Let us know who!
Anderson or Wharton graphic
Getty Images
Man Utd must try everything to win Elliot Anderson race
Despite the defeat to Newcastle, United are still in a strong position to qualify for the 2026/27 Champions League.
Returning to Europe will provide United a huge boost when it comes to luring top players to Old Trafford.
If Michael Carrick is able to achieve a third-place finish in the Premier League, that would also signal to Anderson and other targets that United are not as far off challenging for the title as people think.
READ MORE: Man Utd’s £324m transfer debt means Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund sales will not fund Elliot Anderson
Anderson is dominating the Premier League this season and he is a perfect replacement for Casemiro. When it comes to the transfer battle for his signature, Ineos must be willing to go above and beyond.
In terms of wages and transfer fee, United must show they can still go toe-to-toe with City.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox