Manchester United have identified Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as their prime summer target to replace the departing Casemiro.
Can Man Utd Win the Race for Forest’s Elliot Anderson?
However, the club faces a significant hurdle as reports indicate the 23-year-old England international favours a move to rivals Manchester City.
The Red Devils confirmed this week that the legendary Brazilian midfielder Casemiro will leave the club when his contract expires this summer.
This announcement kickstarts a planned major overhaul of United’s midfield, with Anderson high on their list.
United reportedly believe Anderson possesses the ideal mix of strong defensive attributes and fine ball-playing ability to succeed at Old Trafford.
The club has drawn up a shortlist that also includes Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
Recent analyses suggest United are now prioritising Baleba and Wharton, anticipating Anderson’s preference for the blue side of Manchester.
Nottingham Forest, who signed Anderson from Newcastle United for £35 million in 2024, are expected to demand a fee of around £100 million for their prized asset.
This substantial sum would be a major investment for United, who are also looking to free up significant wage capacity with Casemiro’s £300,000-plus weekly salary coming off the books.
Qualifying for next season’s Champions League is seen as crucial for United’s hopes of attracting top targets and funding these ambitious moves.
The club currently sits just one point behind fourth-placed Liverpool with a game in hand.
One potential advantage for United could be the personal connection between Anderson and interim manager Michael Carrick.
Both began their careers at the same youth club, Wallsend Boys Club in Wearside. This link could be utilised in negotiations if Carrick remains involved with the club beyond this season.
Casemiro’s confirmed departure marks the beginning of what is expected to be a transformative summer for United’s midfield. The club is planning for as many as four new midfield additions.
While Anderson appears to be their dream signing, the growing belief that he will choose City means United’s recruitment team, led by director Christopher Vivell, is already evaluating other targets across Europe.
