- Man City want Anderson
- He has been linked for a long time
- Now he’s even more likely to join
Manchester City have been boosted in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, with the midfielder now even more likely to join the club this summer.
In one of the most well-documented transfer sagas this season, City’s interest in Anderson has been public knowledge for months.
The Forest and England midfielder has become one of the most sought-after players in England, with Pep Guardiola’s side the front-runners for his signature.
Now, after this week’s latest developments, City fans have another reason to be hopeful they can land Anderson over the summer.
Forest’s European elimination will help Man City sign Anderson
On Thursday night, Anderson’s Nottingham Forest side were knocked out of the Europa League semi-finals by Aston Villa.
Forest had led their Mindlands rivals 1-0 after the first leg, but were beaten 4-0 at Villa Park as the hosts showed why they are fifth in the Premier League, and Forest are 16th.
A disappointing night, but so much to be proud of as our European journey comes to an end.
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) May 7, 2026
Thank you for your support along the way, Reds. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4E5Y7ScrDc
That result ended Forest’s Europa League campaign, and any hope of participating in European competition next season.
Had they won the competition, they would have qualified for the Champions League and may have been able to tempt Anderson to stay another season.
However, their elimination has played perfectly into City’s hands, with the Carabao Cup winners now able to offer Anderson elite level competition that he will not get at Forest.
Elliot Anderson could solve Man City’s midfield concerns
On paper, it may sound off to suggest that a side like Man City could be struggling in midfield, given the wealth of riches and talent at their disposal.
However, with Bernardo Silva leaving and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri’s contract situation still uncertain, there have been rumblings around the Etihad that the engine room could be an area of concern next season.
Anderson’s potential arrival could help alleviate such worries, with the 23-year-old Englishman viewed by City as an ideal long-term solution.
Manchester City leading the race for Anderson
Earlier this season, it looked like City would face the fiercest competition for Anderson from rivals Man United.
However, the Red Devils have cooled their interest, and are believed to be pursuing other options, meaning it is the blue side of Manchester that is leading the race as it stands.
The Cityzens could still face some competition from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea, but it is clear who the front-runners are to sign the Forest star.
