Manchester United would "love to sign" Nottingham Forest and England midfielder Elliott Anderson, according to journalist Andy Mitten, but it might take a club-record bid to make it happen.
Anderson has been heavily linked with a big-money move of late, and for good reason.
The 23-year-old, who was recently described as "one of the best midfielders in the Premier League" by Thomas Tuchel, has won possession more times (98) than any other midfielder across Europe’s top five leagues so far this season.
He is also averaging 8.17 ball recoveries and 8.33 progressive passes per 90 in the league in 2025-26 – qualities that United have craved in midfield areas of late.
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In the past, several clubs have been credited with an interest in Anderson, including Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City, but at this stage, it appears Newcastle and Manchester United are keener than others.
A report from The Telegraph suggests both sides hold a 'strong interest', with Anderson being on course to become the next £100 million-plus English player, just 16 months after joining Forest for around £15 million.
Amid their reported interest, it has emerged that United would "love to sign" Anderson, according to The Athletic's Andy Mitten, who also sent a direct message to the player.
"I mentioned Elliot Anderson a few weeks ago — absolutely, Manchester United would love to sign him. It’s obvious, and he’s exactly the type of player Manchester United want," said Mitten on the Talk of the Devils podcast.
"If you’re listening to this, Elliot Anderson, look at what fellow Geordie Brian Robson did in 1981. You can join one of the biggest football clubs in the world and you can be part of their recovery.
"This train is only going to pass once for you, son. Get on the train, because you will never, ever regret it. You can play for middling clubs, you can play for clubs that haven’t treated you well, or you can join Manchester United.
"I know he might not be able to control all of that, and Forest are going to get all 10 men and say, “Yeah, we want 50 zillion quid for him,” or whatever. But a player can also agitate to move."
Mitten added: "If you think of a youthful central player in there, you’d hope for improvement — and there are other names as well who Manchester United are looking at. So listen, Elliot Anderson — United have got other options, it’s still a hugely attractive club, and the money will be there."
Thoughts on Anderson's future? Should Manchester United go all out to sign him? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Man Utd, Premier League, Transfers
Jack Kenmare