Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to secure the signing of Elliot Anderson, with club officials increasingly convinced they can overcome competition from Manchester City for the highly rated Nottingham Forest midfielder.

The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in England, and Forest are understood to value him at around £100 million. Despite strong interest from City, United believe they have a genuine opportunity to persuade Anderson that a move to Old Trafford represents the right next step in his career.

The midfielder is also expected to play a significant role for England at the World Cup, with anticipation growing that he will start against Croatia in the nation’s opening fixture on 17 June.

Alternative Midfield Targets Remain Under Review

While Anderson remains a primary objective, United continue to assess other midfield options as they look to strengthen Michael Carrick’s squad ahead of the new season.

One player attracting attention is Mateus Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder, currently with West Ham, is being closely followed by Jason Wilcox, United’s director of football. West Ham are reportedly seeking a fee close to £80 million for the 21-year-old, although there is uncertainty over whether potential buyers would be willing to meet that valuation.

Fernandes remains an appealing candidate due to both his age and potential, and his situation has become more attractive financially following recent developments at his current club.

City Face Resistance From Forest

Manchester City are still widely viewed as the frontrunners in the race for Anderson, but Forest have already turned down an opening proposal worth £80 million.

That rejection has encouraged United, who remain convinced the player could be tempted by a move to Old Trafford rather than the Etihad Stadium.

Financial considerations are unlikely to present a major obstacle. Anderson currently earns approximately £100,000 per week at Forest and is expected to command a significant salary increase should he complete a transfer this summer. Regardless of whether he joins United or City, his wages are anticipated to rise by around 50%.

Éderson Deal Already Agreed

United have already made progress in rebuilding their midfield by reaching an agreement with Atalanta for Brazilian international Éderson.

The deal is worth €40.5 million, equivalent to roughly £35 million, and the 26-year-old is expected to receive a weekly salary of around £70,000 once his move to Old Trafford is finalized.

Although Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues to focus on reducing expenditure across the club, United’s co-owner is prepared to sanction the financial package required to bring Anderson to Manchester should the player choose the club over their local rivals.

Anderson remains contracted to Nottingham Forest until June 2029, but expectations within football circles are that he will leave the club during the current transfer window.

Fernandes Connection Strengthens United Interest

Fernandes was not included in Portugal’s World Cup squad, but he remains firmly on United’s radar.

His earnings at West Ham were previously close to £70,000 per week. However, following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last month, that figure was reduced by half. As a result, any contract offered by United would comfortably align with Ratcliffe’s efforts to maintain a more controlled wage structure.

There are also existing links between Fernandes and key figures now working at Old Trafford. Wilcox was serving as Southampton’s director of football when the midfielder arrived on the south coast in August 2024.

Meanwhile, Kyle Macaulay, who oversaw Fernandes’ subsequent move to West Ham while working as head of recruitment, is now part of United’s setup after joining the club as head of senior scouting. Macaulay left West Ham following Graham Potter’s dismissal in October.

Baleba Remains a Difficult Option

Another name under consideration is Carlos Baleba, although United may find it difficult to make progress on that front.

Brighton are confident the Cameroon international will remain at the club, and there is little indication that the 22-year-old midfielder will be available during the current window.

Even so, United continue to monitor the market carefully as they seek additional depth and quality in central areas.

Casemiro Closing in on MLS Move

Elsewhere, Casemiro appears increasingly likely to continue his career in Major League Soccer after leaving United.

The Brazilian’s departure has reduced Carrick’s options in midfield, increasing the urgency behind the club’s recruitment plans. Inter Miami are expected to be his next destination, although several hurdles remain before a transfer can be completed.

One complication stems from LA Galaxy holding the 34-year-old’s discovery rights, meaning Inter Miami must first negotiate compensation with the Los Angeles-based club. Another issue involves Inter’s designated player slots, as the club currently lacks an available position capable of accommodating Casemiro’s salary demands.

Despite those challenges, officials involved in the negotiations remain optimistic that solutions can be found, paving the way for the veteran midfielder to complete a move to the United States.