Insider: Man United have a plan to make Forest player 'best in the world' in his position
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(Credit: Imago) Fri 20 March 2026 6:30, UK Manchester United are determined to agree the signing of Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson ahead of the summer transfer window.The 23-year-old is the top target at Old Trafford as they aim to bolster their midfield options in the summer, and they are prepared to beat rivals to his signautre.Both Man City and Liverpool have been heavily linked with moves to sign the England international, but Michael Carrick’s side have a plan for his long-term future.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that United could transform Anderson into one of the best midfielders in the world.While it remains a possibility that they could miss out, they are prepared to “bend over backwards” to agree a deal in what will be a key transfer window for Man United. 🔄 Man United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on deals in progress, signing scoops, departures, and contract news from the United boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Man United make new plan for Elliot AndersonFootball Insider revealed last month that Anderson is Man United’s priority target as they hope to beat rivals to lure him away from Nottingham Forest.While there are other midfielders on their radar, United feel subtle tweaks to his game will make him more effective and the perfect option for their midfield.Elliot AndersonNottingham Forest StatsAppearances30Goals/Assists2/2Tackles (per 90)2.2Interceptions (per 90)1.1Elliot Anderson’s Nottingham Forest stats in the Premier League.
(via WhoScored)Casemiro is set to leave Man United at the end of the season, while speculation about Manuel Ugarte’s future has lingered, but Anderson is seen as the ideal replacement.“It’s not often a player pops up as a real no-brainer,” Brown told Football Insider.“Anderson is absolutely one of them and Man United now know they have to bend over backwards to bring him to the club. I don’t think you’ll find a more stitched-on success.“You’ve got Man City and Liverpool sniffing around as well, but from a United point of view, it’s a deal they have to get over the line.“He’s got every attribute they’re looking for in a midfielder.
He wants to be their best attacker, best winger, best defender.“In Man United’s case, they want him to come in and take Casemiro’s place, and just focus on using all of that energy and concentrate on 15-yard runs in midfield.“Get close to people, make the tackle, win the ball and get it into the forwards to work their magic.“He needs to contain that energy into a refined position instead of doing a bit of everything like he does at Forest, and he could be one of the best midfielders, of his type, in the world.”How much will it cost to sign Anderson from Nottingham Forest?The level of interest in Anderson’s signature, as well as his England performances, means it will cost a significant fee to prise him away this summer.Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Nottingham Forest will demand £100million for Anderson this summer.Credit: Breaking MediaHowever, there is a feeling that clubs will not be willing to meet that price tag, and a deal could insead be agreed for around £80million after negotiations.Should the midfielder go to the World Cup with Thomas Tuchel’s squad, he will have the opportunity to further enhance his reputation and price tag.While Man United have struggled with financial issues over the last year, they are expected to be able to spend on incoming deals this summer. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man United Insider Access Get the full story from Old Trafford and Carrington with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Old Trafford.