Manchester United reportedly offered England World Cup star Elliot Anderson the chance to become their future captain, but ultimately decided against signing the player due to the high transfer fee demanded by Nottingham Forest. The 23-year-old midfielder, who has been a key player for Thomas Tuchel's England side at the 2026 World Cup, was the subject of a late enquiry from United as negotiations with Manchester City appeared to stall.
Captaincy offer and transfer collapse
According to The Athletic, during talks with Anderson's representatives, the Red Devils suggested that the player could receive the honour of becoming club captain if he signed. While nothing was guaranteed, United believed Anderson would develop the leadership qualities required to follow in the footsteps of Bruno Fernandes, Michael Carrick, Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville and Roy Keane. However, United ultimately decided they could not justify spending the amount of money Forest were demanding and chose to pursue other targets.
Anderson joins Manchester City in record deal
Manchester City confirmed the signing of Anderson from Nottingham Forest on Thursday, with the £116 million deal making him the most expensive British footballer of all time. The 23-year-old excelled in a struggling Forest side last season and quickly became a key player in Thomas Tuchel's England team, starting every game for the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup so far. Anderson is expected to be in England's line-up again for the round of 16 clash against Mexico on Monday morning.
United's midfield search continues
After completing a deal to sign Atalanta's Ederson, Michael Carrick is aiming to buy at least one more central midfielder this summer transfer window. However, the process is not going well, as their two top targets have decided to join rival clubs. Matheus Fernandes is heading to Tottenham, while Anderson has joined Manchester City. Another target, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, is also on his way to Spurs. Also on Carrick's shortlist are Bournemouth's Alex Scott, who just missed out on a place in the England squad, and Real Madrid duo Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga.
