Manchester City have seen their first offer for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson turned down as the Premier League champions step up efforts to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
The 23-year-old England international has emerged as one of City’s leading transfer targets, with reports indicating he favours a move to the Etihad Stadium over local rivals Manchester United. Discussions between the clubs are expected to continue despite Forest’s decision to reject the opening proposal.
There is growing belief that Anderson could leave Nottingham Forest this summer following an outstanding campaign that helped raise his profile significantly. His performances earned him a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
City have tracked Anderson for several years, having admired the former Newcastle United academy product since his breakthrough into senior football. Although the midfielder is currently focused on international duty preparations, negotiations between the two clubs can continue during the tournament period.
The departure of captain Bernardo Silva has increased City’s need for midfield reinforcements, with Anderson now viewed as one of the club’s priority targets. Any deal could prove historic, with a potential transfer fee reportedly capable of surpassing the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023, which remains the record fee for a British player.
Anderson is not the only midfielder under consideration. Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali is also highly regarded by City’s recruitment team, with the Italy international believed to have been monitored as a long-term option.
Meanwhile, the future of Nico Gonzalez remains uncertain. The midfielder, who missed out on Spain’s World Cup squad and struggled for regular opportunities under Pep Guardiola last season, could leave the club should a suitable offer arrive.
City are also expected to strengthen at right-back. While Matheus Nunes impressed after being converted from midfield into a defensive role, the club are seeking a younger specialist full-back capable of developing into a long-term solution for the position.