According to The mirrorManchester United have named Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as their main target in midfield.
Last summer, the Red Devils mainly strengthened their attack. Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko were signed in addition to goalkeeper Senne Lammens and left back Diego Leon.
Man United are likely to strengthen their midfield department next year The mirror claim the club have identified Anderson as their number one target for next summer.
The Red Devils believe Anderson can operate as a number 6 or as a marauding midfielder. He would cost less than the £100m price tag for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.
As well as Anderson, United are also looking to revive their interest in Baleba after a failed investigation last summer. Manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly keen on reinforcements in midfield.
Top class
Anderson signed for Forest from Newcastle United in the summer of 2024 and has since developed into one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. In the current campaign he has completed 62 passes per game with an accuracy of 87%.
The 23-year-old was also brilliant with his defensive contributions. The Magpies graduate has won almost 8 duels and 3 tackles per league match with an average of 8 recoveries. He also excelled with his tireless work rate and high pressure.
Anderson has all the attributes to become a defensive midfielder for a top Premier League club. United are making progress under Amorim’s tutelage, and Anderson would be an upgrade to Casemiro for the midfield position.
Casemiro has found new life under Amorim since February, but his current contract expires in June next year. United have the option to extend his £350,000-a-week contract but would prefer to discuss an extension with a significant pay cut.
Either way, the Brazilian will turn 34 next summer and United need to look to the future with a steady and young number 6. Anderson would be a perfect solution, but United could still pursue a deal for Baleba alongside the England international.
In that case, Baleba could operate in a deeper role, giving Anderson more freedom to move forward. Should United sign both, questions could arise over the future of Bruno Fernandes, who has played in central midfield this season.
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