Manchester United are refusing to bow down to Manchester City in their pursuit of Elliot Anderson.
It seemed like a foregone conclusion a couple of weeks ago, with reports emerging that the Englishman preferred a switch to the Etihad over Old Trafford.
INEOS had refused to enter a bidding war with their noisy neighbours, something Nottingham Forest were hoping for to drive the midfielder’s price even higher.
City have since submitted their opening offer, which was rejected, with Forest deeming the 23-year-old to be worth more than £100 million.
City yet to agree a fee for Elliot Anderson
A valuation gap of more than £20 million currently exists, and United co-owners INEOS feel there is a chance to hijack the deal.
There is growing optimism on the red side of Manchester that an agreement can yet be struck, with the Red Devils open to offering a sizeable increase in wages to the England international.
TeamTalk have now revealed that the 20-time English league champions remain locked in talks with Forest as they wait for City to slip up.
“Manchester United have not given up hope of signing Elliot Anderson this summer despite Manchester City’s growing confidence of securing the England international, TEAMtalk can confirm.
United remain locked in talks with Forest
“Forest are standing firm in their belief that Anderson is worth in excess of £100million and have made no secret of their view that his value should surpass the £105million Arsenal paid for Declan Rice.
“City, meanwhile, are prepared to break their own transfer record to land the 23-year-old, but sources indicate they remain almost £20million short of Forest’s current demands.
“Sources close to Old Trafford have told TEAMtalk that the club remain firmly interested in Anderson and have continued discussions regarding a potential move despite City’s advanced position.
“TEAMtalk understands that conversations have taken place and United remain alert to any opportunity should negotiations between City and Forest fail to reach a conclusion.”
Why United are refusing to bow down to City
This saga is unlikely to end anytime soon. More twists and turns are expected, giving United the confidence that their race is yet to be run.
United are pushing so hard as they feel Elliot Anderson is the perfect fit to replace the departing Casemiro, despite the Brazilian himself feeling Ederson is ready to fill the gap.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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