Forest's Staggering Price Tag for Midfield Target
Manchester United's pursuit of England international Elliot Anderson has hit a significant hurdle, with Nottingham Forest setting an astonishing asking price for their prized asset. The Red Devils have registered concrete interest in the 23-year-old midfielder, but according to Sky Germany, will need to table an offer between £100 million and £120 million to secure his signature.
Anderson has flourished since his move from Newcastle United to the City Ground, with his performances earning him a firm place in Thomas Tuchel's plans for next summer's World Cup. His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, attracting attention from several top Premier League clubs, with United identifying him as a primary target to bolster their midfield options.
United's Rebuild and Midfield Conundrum
This pursuit comes during a period of resurgence for Manchester United. The team is currently on a five-match unbeaten run, a streak that includes a 2-2 draw against Tottenham last Saturday. This improvement on the pitch has been underpinned by a more coherent transfer strategy, with recent signings Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha all proving to be shrewd acquisitions.
Strengthening Ruben Amorim's midfield is understood to be the next crucial step in the club's ongoing rebuild. However, United face fierce competition for Anderson's services, with the report indicating that rivals Liverpool and Manchester City also admire the player.
United's scouting network has also identified alternative options, including Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Anderson's England teammate, Adam Wharton. The potential cost of such signings has raised concerns, with former United striker Louis Saha warning of the dangers in the current market.
Saha's Warning and Mainoo's Future
Speaking to OLBG, Saha expressed caution about the prospect of United spending £100 million on a player like Wharton. He stated, "I consider this new market to be extremely dangerous for clubs because you can see the hype that goes up and then you're left surprised." He cited Moises Caicedo's initial struggles to settle at Chelsea as an example of the pressures that come with a mega-money transfer.
A successful move for Anderson would likely have direct consequences for Kobbie Mainoo's future at Old Trafford. The young midfielder has been restricted to a bit-part role this season, featuring in just eight games. Saha offered his assessment of Mainoo's situation, noting, "Kobbie Mainoo needs to believe and show confidence. He has been challenged physically, I think, more than technically. The rhythm in his game needs to improve." He emphasised that Mainoo must show more aggressiveness and engagement to meet the demands placed on every United player.
With the January window on the horizon, United's hierarchy must now weigh the merits of a record-breaking bid for Elliot Anderson against the potential impact on their existing squad and the other talented targets on their shortlist.
