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Manchester City’s stunning £106 million bid for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has been rejected, with the Premier League champions facing tough resistance as their local rivals Manchester United withdraw from the competition. Nottingham Forest are refusing to sell for anything less than a fee that would break the British transfer record.

Forest stand firm on record-breaking valuation

As per reports from The Athletic, Nottingham Forest have made their position unambiguous regarding Anderson’s future, rejecting City’s second major offer. The latest proposal from the Etihad Stadium included a guaranteed £106 million, with additional performance-related bonuses that could raise the total figure substantially higher.

Despite the enormous sum on offer, Forest are said to be adamant that they will only agree to a sale if the deal sets a new British transfer record. The current record belongs to Liverpool, who spent £125 million to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United last summer. Forest are seeking a guaranteed fee exceeding that amount before they part ways with their prized midfielder.

City’s relentless chase faces resistance

Manchester City have identified Anderson as a major target to rejuvenate their midfield options. However, their negotiations have hit a wall. The club believes its latest offer fairly reflects Anderson’s market value, especially given his rapid rise since joining Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in 2024 for £35 million. Nevertheless, Forest’s management remains determined to secure maximum value from any potential transfer.

The situation leaves City in a difficult position as they debate whether to return with a third bid that would exceed £125 million. Although City have the financial capacity to meet such demands, the size of the investment required for the 23-year-old England international is testing even their willingness to spend, especially as the summer transfer window intensifies.

Manchester United step back from pursuit

While City continue to explore their options, Manchester United have reportedly decided to step away from the race. The Red Devils were strongly linked with Anderson earlier this week, with sources suggesting that officials at Old Trafford were confident of outbidding City. However, Nottingham Forest’s escalating valuation has forced the INEOS-backed management team to reconsider their approach.

United are unwilling to engage in what has been described as an “eye-wateringly expensive” battle with City that could see the fee approach £130 million. Considering the need to strengthen several positions in Michael Carrick’s squad, the club has chosen to allocate their transfer budget more strategically, effectively leaving City as the frontrunner should they meet Forest’s demands.

United shift focus to alternative midfield targets

With Anderson now seemingly out of reach, Manchester United have turned their attention to other midfield reinforcements. The club has already agreed on a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta, but they continue to explore further additions to their midfield before the transfer window closes.

Among the names being considered at Carrington are West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott. These alternatives represent more financially viable options, allowing United to strengthen multiple areas of the team simultaneously. Meanwhile, Manchester City remain the only serious contender in the ongoing pursuit of Elliot Anderson, with Nottingham Forest holding firm on their record-breaking valuation.