UMVA has learned that the Elliot Anderson transfer saga has officially begun, with Nottingham Forest turning down the first bid from Manchester City.
The 23-year-old midfielder is one of the most sought-after players going into the summer transfer window, with several top clubs vying for his signature, including the two Manchester clubs.
Manchester City have officially made an opening offer for Anderson, but Forest were quick to reject the initial bid, and City's pursuit of the England international remains ongoing.
Forest are under no pressure to sell cheaply and will look to secure the best possible deal for Anderson if he is to leave this summer, with the benchmark for elite Premier League midfielders having skyrocketed over the last few windows.
The £105 million total package that Arsenal agreed to pay West Ham for a fellow midfielder in July 2023 is viewed by some industry insiders as the baseline price any suitor would need to beat in guaranteed figures to land Anderson.
The groundwork for potential talks may have already been laid at the highest level, with Forest owner and City chairman having spoken at a recent high-profile event, although there are no suggestions that they actively negotiated a deal for Anderson.
Any successful move for Anderson would add to a massive summer of transition at Manchester City, who are already navigating a period of monumental change following the departure of their legendary manager and the exits of experienced dressing-room leaders.
Manchester United have also held a long-standing interest in Anderson as they look to rebuild their own midfield, and one of the reasons behind Manchester City's early move for the player could be to get the deal wrapped up as soon as possible.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Manchester City are pushing hard for Anderson, aware of Manchester United's ongoing interest, and are determined to secure his signature.
City believe they can tempt Anderson with a really important contract offer, and their pursuit of the player remains a top priority, even under new leadership.
