Nottingham Forest Turn Down Manchester City’s Opening Bid for Elliot Anderson Amid Record-Fee Speculation

Nottingham Forest have rejected an opening bid from Manchester City for midfielder Elliot Anderson, signalling the start of what is shaping up to be one of the most significant transfer negotiations of the 2026 summer window.

Anderson, 23, enjoyed a remarkable 2025-26 campaign, making 50 appearances for Forest and earning a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The midfielder is currently on international duty as the two clubs prepare to resume discussions over a potential transfer.

According to reports, Anderson is reportedly inclined to join City at the Etihad Stadium rather than cross-town rivals Manchester United, and there is a widespread expectation within the game that he will leave the City Ground before the window closes. Any agreed fee could prove historic — projections suggest the transfer could surpass the £105 million Arsenal paid for Declan Rice in 2023, which currently stands as the record fee for a British player.

City’s interest in the Newcastle United academy product is understood to be long-standing, and the urgency to reinforce their midfield has intensified following the departure of club captain Bernardo Silva. The Portuguese midfielder had been a central figure at the Etihad for several seasons, and his exit has left a significant void in Pep Guardiola’s — or his successor’s — squad.

Beyond Anderson, City are also said to have a high regard for Sandro Tonali at Newcastle United, with reports suggesting the Italy international has been monitored as a longer-term midfield option. The club’s recruitment planning appears to extend across multiple positions heading into a pivotal rebuilding phase.

In defence, sources suggest Manchester City are actively seeking a young, natural right-back capable of providing cover and competition for Matheus Nunes. The 28-year-old was originally deployed as a central midfielder but excelled following his conversion to the right-back role during the 2025-26 season. City are now reportedly looking to bring in a specialist in that position who can develop over time alongside Nunes.

On the outgoing front, Nico González could leave the club if a satisfactory offer is received, having fallen out of favour with Guardiola during the past season.

The rejection of City’s opening bid for Anderson is consistent with Forest’s established approach in recent transfer windows, where the club has demonstrated a willingness to hold firm on valuations for key assets. Forest have steadily built one of the Premier League’s most competitive squads since their return to the top flight, and Anderson has been central to that project since joining from Newcastle United in the summer of 2024.