By Adegboyega Adeleye
Manchester City have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson after seeing an improved offer worth £120 million rejected.
According to the BBC, City submitted a second bid for the England international worth an initial £106 million plus performance-related add-ons, but Nottingham Forest turned down the proposal.
Pep Guardiola’s side have intensified efforts to strengthen their midfield following the departure of Bernardo Silva, with Anderson emerging as their leading target ahead of the new season.
Should City eventually secure the 23-year-old for a fee in the region of their latest offer, it would surpass the £105 million Arsenal paid for Declan Rice in 2023 and become the most expensive transfer involving an English player.
Anderson is understood to favour a move to the Etihad Stadium, while personal terms are not expected to present any difficulties.
Manchester United had also been linked with the midfielder but reports suggest they have effectively withdrawn from the race, unwilling to enter a bidding battle and prioritising players fully committed to joining the club.
City have monitored Anderson for several years, dating back to his emergence through Newcastle United’s academy system.
The midfielder enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Nottingham Forest last season, helping the club reach the Europa League semi-finals while also securing Premier League survival.
Since joining Forest from Newcastle in 2024 for £35 million, Anderson has made 92 appearances and scored six goals.
The England international is currently with the national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and started the Three Lions’ 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in their final warm-up match before the tournament.
While Anderson focuses on international duty, negotiations between Manchester City and Nottingham Forest are expected to continue as the Premier League champions look to secure one of their top transfer targets.
City are also understood to be long-time admirers of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, although Anderson remains their priority option.
