Man City transfer news: Elliot Anderson ‘desire’ revealed amid £87.1m Man Utd battle

Coveted by both Manchester clubs ahead of the summer window, Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has revealed his preference for his next move.

A starter in 31 Premier League matches for Nottingham Forest this season, Anderson has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the division. Recently handed his first England call-up and now firmly in contention for a place in Thomas Tuchel's 2026 World Cup squad, the 23-year-old will not be staying at the City Ground for much longer — for two clear reasons.

Currently 16th in the Premier League, Nottingham Forest have not yet secured their top-flight survival, and relegation would almost certainly force the club to sell their most prized assets. More significantly, Anderson has attracted major interest and has his sights set on a more ambitious challenge for his development, one that may not require him to leave the Premier League, given that two of its biggest clubs are locked in a battle to sign him.

Anderson prefers Manchester City to Manchester United

Both the Red Devils and the Citizens are looking to strengthen their midfield this summer. Manchester United need to replace the departing Casemiro, and potentially Manuel Ugarte, while Manchester City have opened the door to a Rodri departure, with Pep Guardiola publicly acknowledging the possibility. Both neighbours have been put on notice.

Anderson's market value is currently estimated at £52m, but Nottingham Forest are demanding in excess of £86m for the former Newcastle United man, who is under contract until June 2029.

Also said to be on the radar of Chelsea and Tottenham, Anderson has now made a significant decision about his future. According to the Daily Mirror, the England international has given his preference to Manchester City. While that does not guarantee a move to the Etihad Stadium in the coming months, his desire to join the 2024 Premier League champions should help facilitate and accelerate negotiations between Forest and City.