Brilliant PL dynamo in United’s crosshairs has already decided his preferred destination – report

Manchester United have several top midfielders from across the continent on their radar ahead of 2026, including Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.

The Englishman has caught the eye since joining the West Bridgford side from Newcastle United in 2024, and has already become a key figure in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

His efforts have reportedly earned him admirers at the Theatre of Dreams as well.

Old Trafford eyeing Midfield reinforcements

United’s search for a new midfielder stems from the club’s struggles to control games of late. A summer of smart reinforcements has significantly improved the attack, and the spotlight is now on the middle of the park.

A midfield pivot of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro has done well this season, but it is hardly a long-term solution. The likes of Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Angelo Stiller have been mentioned in conversations, but there is an argument that Anderson could be the best fit for Amorim’s team.

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that United may have an advantage in the race for the Englishman. However, another update has now cast a worrying shadow over the situation.

Anderson would prefer St. James’ Park return

Speaking to The United Stand, journalist Ben Jacobs stated that Newcastle United cannot be ruled out of the race for Anderson just yet.

“Don’t discount Newcastle in the conversation for Elliot Anderson. What people don’t understand about the Anderson deal … this is a kid who was Newcastle through and through. He didn’t want to leave Newcastle United. He was forced out due to PSR,” said Jacobs.

“What happened was that Liverpool agreed a deal for Anthony Gordon, and Jarell Quansah was going to go the other way. Then at the last minute, Yankuba Minteh went to Brighton and Forest came in for Elliot Anderson, and the incomings allowed Newcastle to pull the plug on the Gordon deal.

“Anderson’s love for Newcastle hasn’t gone away. There is that pre-existing connection to Newcastle. Now you have Ross Wilson, who is the sporting director at Newcastle, who did the deal to bring him to Nottingham Forest.

“From the Newcastle point of view if Elliot Anderson was available at value, they would still be open to re-signing him despite the fact they have Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.”

Anderson is under contract with Forest until 2029 and could cost around £100 million.

Final Thoughts

Anderson has played every minute of every Premier League game for Forest this season and has been a dominant force in the middle of the park.

Elliot Anderson Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt

The Englishman has all the attributes to be Casemiro’s replacement at the Theatre of Dreams. The 23 year old will add poise and tenacity to Amorim’s midfield, while his leadership qualities will also be a welcome addition to the squad.

United have to do everything possible to ensure they beat the competition to Anderson’s signature in 2026.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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