Nottingham Forest have made it clear that they are not willing to let go of Elliot Anderson without a significant financial return. The 23-year-old, who has become a key player for the club since his move from Newcastle, is now seen as an essential part of Thomas Tuchel’s plans for the upcoming World Cup. His performances have drawn attention from several top Premier League clubs, with Manchester United being one of the most interested parties.
United’s interest in Anderson is said to be concrete, and the club is reportedly considering a major investment to bring him to Old Trafford. However, Nottingham Forest are demanding a hefty price tag, with reports suggesting that the fee could range between £100 million and £120 million. This figure has sparked discussions about the risks involved in such a high-value transfer, especially given the player’s relative youth and inexperience.
In addition to Anderson, Manchester United are also showing interest in other young talents, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, who is also part of the England national team. The club’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, is expected to focus on strengthening the midfield during the summer transfer window, and these players are seen as potential targets.
Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has expressed concerns about the club’s approach to high-value signings, particularly when targeting younger players. He highlighted the dangers of investing heavily in unproven talent, pointing out that even top prospects can take time to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
“I think Adam Wharton is a young lad,” Saha said. “I do think that sometimes you have to be careful with those big signings. I consider this new market to be extremely dangerous for clubs because you can see the hype that goes up and then you’re left surprised.”
He also mentioned that players like Moises Caicedo, who took time to settle at Chelsea, serve as cautionary tales. “It took a bit of time for Moises Caicedo to settle at Chelsea as well so there are big signings and sometimes the expectations are too high. You have to really read under the lines and that’s not easy.”
Saha also warned against the influence of agents, who often push for higher fees. “People can throw big numbers. The agents are very pleased with that. I am not a big fan of this.”
The pursuit of Anderson could have implications for Kobbie Mainoo, who has struggled to make an impact this season. With limited playing time, Mainoo may find himself on the periphery of the squad if United decides to sign a new midfielder.
“Kobbie Mainoo needs to believe and show confidence,” Saha added. “He has been challenged physically, I think, more than technically. The rhythm in his game needs to improve. This is the only thing I see because otherwise, football-wise, his brain is very sharp.”
Mainoo, according to Saha, needs to be more aggressive and take more initiative on the pitch. “He needs to engage more, to create more, and definitely show aggressiveness. This is the type of thing that they’re asking for from every player so it’s not going to be only for him to show that.”
While the competition may be tough, Saha believes it could ultimately benefit Mainoo. “But yes, he’s been challenged and I think he’s got competition. I think sometimes they are not fair but I think it’s good for him.”