Manchester City push to complete Elliot Anderson deal as Nottingham Forest hold firm

Manchester City remain locked in negotiations with Nottingham Forest as they attempt to finalise a blockbuster move for midfielder Elliot Anderson.

The England international has emerged as one of City's leading transfer targets this summer, with discussions continuing over a package that could exceed £100 million and establish a new club-record transfer fee.

While significant progress has already been made, sources suggest one major obstacle remains before an agreement can be formally completed.

Manchester City have identified Anderson as a key part of their squad rebuild under incoming manager Enzo Maresca and director of football Hugo Viana.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise since leaving Newcastle United and has become one of the Premier League's most highly-rated midfielders during his time at Nottingham Forest.

Reports indicate the player has already made it clear that he wants to join City and is prepared to complete the move as soon as an agreement is reached between the clubs.

Personal terms are understood to be broadly settled, leaving negotiations between Manchester City and Nottingham Forest as the final hurdle.

Having followed Anderson's development closely over the past two seasons, his blend of technical quality, athleticism and versatility makes him an ideal fit for the type of midfield Maresca is looking to build.

The biggest issue remains the structure of the deal.

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to commit to a package worth more than £100 million, but Nottingham Forest continue to push for terms that maximise the value of the transfer.

Forest are believed to want around £105 million, a figure comparable to the amount Arsenal paid to sign Declan Rice.

While City have submitted an offer containing approximately £80 million in guaranteed payments, discussions continue regarding add-ons and instalment structures.

The East Midlands club are refusing to lower their valuation and believe Anderson's performances justify a fee that would rank among the most expensive transfers involving an English midfielder.

Manchester City view Anderson as a long-term cornerstone of their midfield.

With significant changes taking place across the squad following several departures, the club are targeting younger British talent capable of contributing immediately while also offering long-term value.

The midfielder's age profile aligns perfectly with City's current recruitment strategy.

Reports suggest Anderson remains determined to complete the move before England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia, allowing him to focus fully on international duties once the transfer is resolved.

That desire has provided additional momentum to ongoing negotiations.

Negotiations between Manchester City and Nottingham Forest are expected to continue over the coming hours, with optimism that a breakthrough can be achieved quickly. The remaining discussions focus largely on payment schedules and bonus structures rather than the overall value of the transfer.

If an agreement is reached, Anderson could complete the move before England's opening World Cup fixture, allowing City to secure one of their priority targets early in the summer window. The transfer would also provide Nottingham Forest with substantial funds to reinvest across the squad.

Would Elliot Anderson be worth a club-record fee for Manchester City, or are Nottingham Forest demanding too much for the England midfielder?