Man Utd Eyes Stunning £100 Million Swoop for Carlos Baleba Alternative
Manchester United have set their sights on Nottingham Forest's midfield talent Elliot Anderson, with the player carrying an estimated price tag of approximately £100 million ($130.7 million), as per recent reports.
The Red Devils underwent significant squad changes during the summer transfer window, making substantial investments in three attacking players and a shot-stopper, though their next major acquisition is expected to be a dynamic young midfielder.
While Casemiro has restored his standing following a difficult spell, the veteran could depart Old Trafford as a free agent when his contract expires at season's end, given he'll be 34. Manager Ruben Amorim recently expressed his desire to "continue counting on Casemiro", though the Brazilian's substantial £350,000 weekly wages might influence decisions.
Carlos Baleba had emerged as United's primary target, with the club showing interest in the 21-year-old during the summer window, before his astronomical valuation deterred the Manchester club as Brighton & Hove Albion refused to enter discussions.
Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton represents another option under consideration, though it may be his fellow Englishman Anderson who becomes United's focus for the upcoming summer window.
Man Utd Among Three English Clubs Competing for Elliot Anderson
Reports from The Times suggest United are among three clubs "keeping tabs on the development" of the £100 million-valued midfielder in preparation for the next summer transfer period.
Eager to strengthen their midfield options with Casemiro's potential departure looming, United have included Anderson on their list of targets, though they may face competition from current Premier League titleholders Liverpool and the 23-year-old's previous club Newcastle United.
Newcastle opted to part ways with Anderson in 2024 to meet financial fair play requirements, securing a £35 million transfer fee from Forest. His market value has since soared dramatically following his remarkable progress.
Anderson has established himself among the Premier League's most promising young midfielders and has earned recognition in England's senior setup under Thomas Tuchel's guidance. He's featured in the starting lineup for five of the last six international fixtures and looks set for inclusion in next summer's FIFA World Cup roster.
The former Newcastle youth product has impressed observers with his exceptional combination of physical prowess, determination and defensive intelligence in midfield, making him an ideal candidate for United's midfield transformation.
The Red Devils are "improbable" to submit a bid for Anderson during January—as Forest remain closed to discussions in the winter market—but he will feature prominently in their summer planning.