13 May 2026 09:50 BST |
4 min read
Manchester United are considering other midfield targets in the event that dream signing Elliot Anderson decides to join Manchester City instead, according to Sky Sports.
The Red Devils are looking to bolster their squad when the summer transfer window opens next month, with BBC Sport claiming the club’s hierarchy have identified the centre of midfield as a priority position.
Widespread reports have indicated that United hold strong interest in Nottingham Forest star Anderson, who has helped his side achieve Premier League survival and reach the Europa League semi-finals this season.
Such has been Anderson’s impressive form in 2025-26 that The Telegraph believe it would take an offer in excess of €115million (£100m) to prize him away from Vitor Pereira’s Forest.
Sky Sports understand that while United are not giving up hope of signing Anderson at the end of the season, club officials believe Pep Guardiola’s City remain favourites to sign the England star.
And therefore United are running the rule over a number of alternatives as they look to guard against Anderson turning down their advances in favour of a big-money move to the Etihad Stadium.
Sky Sports claim the 20-time league champions have stepped up their interest in signing West Ham United ace Mateus Fernandes, who has performed admirably for the relegation-threatened side this season.
United are also understood to be keeping close tabs on Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with the Brazil international having earned rave reviews for his Serie A displays in recent seasons.
Alternatively, BBC Sport believe United remain admirers of Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, having tried to sign the Cameroon international last summer.
While United continue to analyse several midfield stars, they are preparing to say goodbye to another as Casemiro gears up for an emotional Old Trafford farewell against Anderson’s Forest on Sunday.
The 34-year-old, who will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, has played a huge role in his side qualifying for the 2026-27 Champions League, scoring nine Premier League goals this term.
Analysis: Anderson’s price tag could rise during the World Cup
All eyes will be on Anderson as he prepares for his maiden World Cup with England this summer.
The former Newcastle United man was one of the first names on the team sheet as Thomas Tuchel’s side secured their place in the tournament with an unbeaten qualification campaign.
Should Anderson perform well as England’s first-choice No. 6 in North America, Forest will be well placed to increase their asking price, with The i Paper claiming Chelsea are also keen on his services.
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