Manchester United are facing an uphill battle in their attempts to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this summer.
Manchester United are preparing for a revamp of their midfield this summer, with at least two new arrivals expected in that position.
It has been confirmed that Casemiro will leave the club in June upon the expiry of his contract, bringing his four-year stay at Old Trafford to an end.
It is also possible that Manuel Ugarte will leave, with various reports claiming that the Uruguayan has grown frustrated over his lack of game time this season.
Elliot Anderson is said to be at the top of United’s shortlist, although the club also have a long-standing interest in Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Sandro Tonali is also said to feature high on United’s list of targets, alongside his Newcastle teammate Bruno Guimaraes. Rumours linking the duo to potential moves to Old Trafford are growing in momentum.
Man City leading the race for Anderson
It is looking increasingly likely that Elliot Anderson is on his way to Manchester City. According to the BBC, City are the clear frontrunners to land Anderson at the end of the season, but that is not to say United will abandon their interest.
The BBC report claims that many at United view Anderson as the player the club should prioritise.
It is likely Anderson would cost a minimum of £80 million, but that is a fee United accept they will need to pay to secure one of their top targets for the number six position.
The BBC reports that while United would be wary of getting involved in an auction over wages with their city rivals, they are prepared to make a substantial effort to sign the Nottingham Forest midfielder.
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Anderson would take United to the next level
Anderson is the perfect fit for what United needs. Whilst he would cost a lot of money, he is only 23 years old and could be a prominent figure at the heart of United’s midfield for the next decade, next to Kobbie Mainoo.
On the ball, he is very progressive, both through pass and carry, and is very good at dribbling away from opposition players when pressed.
Off the ball, he is equally impressive. He forces a lot of ball recoveries, is comfortable pressing high up the pitch and wins a lot of duels, both on the ground and in the air.
It is imperative that whoever United replaces Casemiro with is strong in the air, as the Brazilian is United’s only real aerial presence in midfield.
United obviously need to stay disciplined in negotiations, but the club will hope securing Champions League football could strengthen their hand in their pursuit of Anderson.
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