Manchester United are reportedly growing more optimistic about their chances of beating cross-town rivals Manchester City to the signature of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
Anderson chase
Heading into the summer transfer window, bolstering the midfield is believed to be United’s top priority.
Already, United have secured the services of Ederson, having struck an agreement with Atalanta for £34m (€40.5m) plus £3.8m (€4.5m) in potential add-ons.
Ederson was expected to seal his move to United early next month but the date to officially get it over the line has now been pushed back by a few more weeks due to his shock late call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad after Wesley sustained an injury in the camp.
Anderson is believed to be United’s top target after another sensational season at Forest, despite the side battling relegation for most of the campaign.
But City are widely seen as favourites to land Anderson. There have also been suggestions that the Etihad is his preferred destination, although United remain hopeful that they can lure him to the red side of the city.
Last week, City had an opening bid of £80m for Anderson rejected by Forest, who are said to be holding out for around £120m. Earlier today, Fabrizio Romano reiterated that City are the clear frontrunners to win the race for Anderson.
However, according to The Guardian, United are optimistic that they will ultimately usurp City for Anderson. The newspaper has also hinted at the amount of money the England international stands to net at either club.
Anderson update
Jamie Jackson of The Guardian writes, “Manchester United remain intent on signing Elliot Anderson, with the club’s executives optimistic they can beat Manchester City in the race to acquire the 23-year-old midfielder, who is valued at about £100m by Nottingham Forest.”
“United believe he can be persuaded to move to Old Trafford.”
Anderson currently earns around £100,000-a-week at Forest and Jackson states that he is guaranteed at least a 50% pay rise if he joins either United or City.
While United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains determined to trim the wage bill, he is prepared to meet Anderson’s wage demands.
Another option on the table for United is West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes. West Ham are demanding £80m for the Portugal international but there is little chance of them receiving such an offer following their relegation to the Championship.
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