Chelsea have been informed that a £100m offer would be necessary to secure Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this summer, with the 22-year-old England U21 international also emerging as a priority target for Manchester United. CaughtOffside reports that Forest are prepared to hold firm on their valuation for the highly-rated central midfielder, who made a permanent switch from Newcastle United in summer 2024 for around £35m. Anderson's rapid development and consistent performances have transformed him into one of the Premier League's most promising young talents, drawing attention from multiple top-six clubs.
Since arriving at the City Ground, Anderson has started 19 of Forest's 23 Premier League matches under 3 different managers, contributing two goals and four assists while averaging 2.1 tackles, 1.4 key passes and 87% pass completion per 90 minutes. His composure on the ball, work rate and tactical intelligence have made him a standout performer for a Forest side pushing for European qualification. The club view him as a cornerstone of their project, and his contract until summer 2029 gives them substantial leverage. Forest are under no immediate financial pressure to sell and would only consider offers that reflect Anderson's rising stock and importance to their midfield structure.
Chelsea's Midfield Ambition
Chelsea's interest in Anderson stems from their ongoing quest to add dynamism and creativity to Liam Rosenior's midfield. With Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo providing defensive steel, the Blues are seeking a versatile box-to-box option who can contribute in both phases of play. Anderson's left-footedness, ability to break lines and high energy levels align perfectly with Rosenior's possession-dominant system, offering competition and cover while providing long-term upside at just 22. His Premier League experience ensures he could adapt quickly, making him a more immediate impact player than some of the younger prospects Chelsea have targeted.
A £100m fee would represent a significant outlay, but Chelsea's financial position — bolstered by recent sales and PSR compliance — allows them to compete. The club would likely structure the deal with instalments and performance add-ons to manage the cost, but Forest's firm stance means any negotiation would be challenging. Chelsea see Anderson as a statement signing that signals their intent to challenge for top-four contention, but they must act decisively to beat rivals like United to his signature.
United's Competing Interest
Manchester United's pursuit adds competitive tension to the race. The Red Devils view Anderson as a key part of their midfield rebuild under their current management, particularly as they look to complement Kobbie Mainoo with young British talent possessing high potential. With Casemiro's influence declining and Christian Eriksen in the later stages of his career, United prioritise athletic, technically proficient players who can develop into world-class operators. Anderson's versatility — capable of playing as a deep-lying playmaker or box-to-box No8 — would provide balance and immediate competition, while his left-footedness offers tactical flexibility.
United's financial firepower makes them genuine contenders, but the £100m price tag would require careful planning, potentially involving player sales to generate funds. The club have shown willingness to invest in youth with high resale value, and Anderson fits that profile perfectly. However, Forest's preference for dealing with Chelsea — or holding out for the highest bidder — could complicate United's efforts.
Market Reaction and Valuation Context
Betting markets have reacted to the developments, with odds shortening on Anderson leaving Nottingham Forest this summer. Chelsea and Manchester United are priced closely as joint favourites, while Forest retention has drifted. The latest Elliot Anderson next club odds reflect strong market confidence in a big-money move, but the £100m valuation acts as a significant barrier. Forest's strong negotiating position — bolstered by Anderson's contract length and their own European ambitions — means any deal would likely include add-ons and performance clauses to reach the full figure.
Anderson's rapid ascent has been remarkable: from Newcastle's academy to regular Premier League starter at Forest, he has demonstrated maturity and technical quality beyond his years. The interest from Chelsea and United underscores his status as one of England's most promising young midfielders. For Forest, a sale at £100m would represent exceptional profit on their £35m investment, providing funds to reinvest in other areas. The summer window will test all parties' resolve, with Anderson's next move likely to be one of the defining midfield transfers of the campaign.
Summer Outlook and Midfield Market Context
The coming months will be crucial for Anderson's future. Forest will aim to secure clarity on his future early, potentially through improved terms or public reaffirmation of his role. Chelsea and United must decide whether to meet the £100m threshold or explore alternatives, while Anderson's preference for regular minutes and a higher-profile project will influence the outcome. Newcastle's buy-back clause adds another layer, though their financial position may limit their ability to match top-six bids. Anderson's next move will be closely watched, with his blend of youth, technical quality and Premier League experience making him a valuable commodity in a market short on top-class young central midfielders.