MANCHESTER UNITED could join two Premier League rivals in the hunt for Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.
Former Newcastle midfielder Anderson is in high demand after his incredible rise over the last two seasons.
The 22-year-old, dubbed the “Geordie Maradona”, is reportedly of interest to Chelsea and Manchester City after impressing on his England debut.
United boss Ruben Amorim has United’s midfield at the top of his to-do list and Anderson could be the missing piece, according to the Mirror.
They are also interested in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace‘s Adam Wharton.
Forest star Anderson is expected to be included in Thomas Tuchel‘s England squad for next year’s World Cup after making his debut in September.
Fan tragedy
Man City fan dies suddenly in Benidorm hours before Champions League clash
ON THE BOX
How to watch Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley for £24.99 – live stream & TV guide
Anderson was forced out of his boyhood club, Newcastle, due to threats of a points reduction over PSR rules.
He was sold to Forest for £35m, something Magpies boss Eddie Howe later admitted was “a mistake”.
Anderson was a key player in Forest’s 2024/25 success, helping them qualify for the Europa League.
Anderson’s ability to play as both a defensive and attacking midfielder has seen his value more than double, to an estimated value of £75m.
United, City and Chelsea will be keen to sign him before the World Cup, when his value could increase even more.
Forest are determined to keep their prize asset and reportedly do not want to sell the player, who is under contract until June 2029.
City are looking to reinforce their midfield over concerns about Rodri‘s long-term future at the club after his injury.
The Blues are keen to lure Anderson to Stamford Bridge after being plagued by injuries this season, with their star boy Cole Palmer out due to a groin issue until December.
The Red Devils could be looking for two new players with squad captain Bruno Fernandes attracting interest and Casemiro’s contract up in the summer.
United tried to sign Baleba in the summer transfer window but the Seagulls refused to sell.
Speaking on the situation Brighton club owner, Tony Bloom, said: “There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn’t available this summer and they went away.
“His (Baleba) improvement has been immense. Massively important player to this football club, and just delighted that he’s with us for this season.”
Read the full article here