MANCHESTER — Manchester City’s efforts to bolster their midfield ahead of the 2026-27 season have faced a significant hurdle, as Nottingham Forest has rejected a second, improved offer for England international Elliot Anderson.

The Premier League champions, looking to refresh their squad under the direction of sporting leadership, saw an initial bid of £80 million turned down earlier this summer. In a push to finalize a deal, City returned with a package worth approximately £122 million. This proposal reportedly included a guaranteed fee of £106 million, supplemented by £16 million in performance-related add-ons.

However, sources close to the negotiations indicate that Nottingham Forest remains resolute in its valuation. Forest ownership is reportedly holding out for a fixed, guaranteed fee of £125 million before considering any departures. Such a figure would establish a new British transfer record, surpassing the £125 million fee Newcastle United received from Liverpool for Alexander Isak last summer.

The Wider Midfield Strategy

While Elliot Anderson is firmly established as Manchester City’s primary target, the club is simultaneously evaluating alternative options to ensure their midfield remains competitive. Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been identified as a key name on the club’s shortlist. Tonali, who is widely expected to leave St. James' Park this summer, is attracting interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal and sides in Italy.

City’s urgency in the market is tied to a planned squad overhaul, with the club bracing for the potential departures of high-profile veterans. The focus on Anderson reflects a strategic shift toward acquiring established Premier League talent capable of integrating immediately into the starting eleven.

Player Stance and World Cup Context

Anderson, who is currently preparing with the England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is reportedly keen on a move to the Etihad Stadium and has held preliminary discussions regarding personal terms. Despite the ongoing noise surrounding his club future, the midfielder is expected to feature in England’s opening tournament fixture. Manchester City officials are reportedly aiming to resolve the impasse before the competition intensifies, hoping to avoid lengthy negotiations that could disrupt the player's focus.

With Manchester United also previously linked to the midfielder, the coming days will be critical. It is understood that City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, may return with a third, final offer before the weekend in an attempt to meet Forest’s demands and conclude one of the most high-profile transfer sagas of the summer.