United plotting ambitious move for ex-Newcastle star who is “exactly the type of midfielder” they want – report

Manchester United could look to strengthen their midfield in January after failing to bring in a midfielder in the summer.

United’s midfield has been easy to play through in the early weeks of the season, as Ruben Amorim’s decision to play Bruno Fernandes deeper has led to more defensive burden on the defensive midfielder in the pivot.

Fernandes’ work ethic out of possession remains ace, but he lacks positional awareness to mark his man in the defensive third. The Portuguese’s failure to track his man led to Fulham’s equaliser last month.

Manchester United keen on Elliot Anderson

According to Football Insider, United are considering a move to sign Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.

Following the 22-year-old’s brilliant display for England against Andorra, United believe he is capable of making a difference in Amorim’s midfield. 

The Englishman has established himself as one of Forest’s most important players, impressing with his physicality and ability to play between the lines. Anderson is certainly one of the most well-rounded midfielders in the Premier League.

“Man United have been looking at Anderson,” United’s former scout Mick Brown told Football Insider.

“He’s done a tremendous job at Nottingham Forest and then he’s come into the England side and turned in a man-of-the-match performance. United see him as exactly the type of midfielder they would like to bring in.”

Newcastle sold him to Forest in 2024 and failed to include a buy-back clause in the deal.

Elliot Anderson emerges as Carlos Baleba’s alternative

Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba remains United’s preferred option for midfield. 

However, Football Insider claim that Brighton have made it clear he is not for sale in January under any circumstances.

Further, Brighton’s asking price for Baleba might put off United and make Anderson a more appealing target. That being said, the Forest star is unlikely to be cheap, as he moved to Nottingham in a deal worth £35 million.

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