Elliot Anderson would be a perfect signing for Man City: here's why

After playing a starring role for Forest last season and being a vital player in an England team preparing for the World Cup, it's expected that Anderson will secure a big-money move ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. 

While Anderson's contract at the City Ground will last until 2029, there is a reluctance at Forest about his future in Garibaldi red and an inevitable exit. 

With City's first bid rejected, they will be asked to pay a premium for Anderson's services, with some suggesting the fee could surpass Declan Rice's £105m move to Arsenal and make him the most expensive English signing in Premier League history. 

Despite Forest's stubbornness in attempting to get the price they want, City would be foolish not to do their best to sign Anderson, as he is a perfect fit for a team preparing for the post-Pep Guardiola era. 

Anderson can fill a massive hole left by City legend

Guardiola was not the only major exit from City at the end of the season; midfielder Bernardo Silva also called time on his nine years at the club. 

The 31-year-old Portuguese international was a jack of all trades, making him a guaranteed starter on Guardiola's teamsheet, and whenever he was not there, City would struggle. 

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If City are to continue winning silverware, they need to fill the void left by Silva, and Anderson could do so.

Anderson is a workhorse, just like Silva, meaning he would be able to fulfil whatever role the incoming City manager gives him and help him progress even further as one of England's premier talents. 

City needs Anderson to be a midfield general

What has made City such a dominant footballing force is their midfield and their ability to disrupt opponents when in possession, even when the dark arts are at play. 

City have had their fair share of midfielders who specialise in this arena, including Fernandinho and Rodri. 

With Rodri being linked to a move away from City, Anderson will likely be the man to take up the mantle of being the team's midfield general, and he has already proven to be suited to that role. 

Playing for City brings immense pressure, but given that Anderson has become one of Forest's poster boys, the 23-year-old would grow rather than shrink in the sky-blue shirt.

Anderson's dual threat perfect for City transitions

The fact that Anderson is a threat in both attack and defence will make him an attractive proposition for any 'big' team. 

Last season, Anderson was mostly played as a defensive midfielder, but he also thrives in attack. 

Anderson is often willing to push forward with the ball at his feet and create chances for his teammates. 

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During the 2025/26 campaign, Anderson scored four goals, including one against City, and recorded four assists, making him an attacking threat. 

In a City team which relies on swift transitions from attack to defence, Anderson would be a perfect fit as someone who has the confidence to break up play, regain possession, and then surge up the pitch towards the opposition goal. 

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