Man City's opening Elliot Anderson bid rejected by Nottingham Forest

Manchester City have seen their first bid for Elliot Anderson rejected by Nottingham Forest, but the England midfielder is still expected to leave the City Ground this summer. BBC Sport had previously reported that the 23-year-old was leaning towards a move to the Etihad Stadium rather than Manchester United.

Anderson enjoyed an excellent season for Forest and has been named in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup. City formally tested Forest’s resolve with an opening offer, but The Athletic reports that it was turned down. Talks between clubs can still continue while Anderson prepares for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

A transfer could end up setting a record for a British player, potentially surpassing the £105m Arsenal paid West Ham for Declan Rice in 2023. City have admired Anderson for some time, and his profile appears to fit their plans as they reshape midfield options after Bernardo Silva’s expected departure.

Sandro Tonali is another midfielder City are said to value highly, with reports that the Newcastle player has been monitored as a long-term target. Nico Gonzalez could also move on if the right offer arrives after a difficult spell in which he fell out of favour under Pep Guardiola and missed out on Spain’s World Cup squad.

City are also expected to strengthen at right-back. Matheus Nunes impressed in the role after being converted from midfield, but the club wants a natural full-back who can develop into the position over time. That wider recruitment plan suggests City are already thinking beyond one summer signing as they look to refresh the squad.