Manchester United want to make Elliot Anderson their marquee summer signing, according to journalist Samuel Luckhurst.
The Red Devils need to bolster the engine room, and the Nottingham Forest star is their ideal midfield target. He is valued at around £100 million.
United desperately need a new anchor with Casemiro poised to exit Old Trafford on a free transfer this summer.
No midfielder in the league has completed more successful short passes than Anderson this season. Only two have completed more long passes.
Anderson ranks third for successful open play crosses. He is fourth for interceptions and total tackles, and has won the most duels.
However, United will not get a free run at the 23-year-old with rivals Manchester City also plotting to secure his services.
They are looking for a potential successor to Rodri, and Anderson is on their shortlist.
The Red Devils are also keeping an eye on other targets, including Adam Wharton, Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba and Alex Scott.
Anderson is an ideal option for United
Under co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club have targeted Premier League-proven footballers, and this summer won’t be any different.
They cannot afford to dither on this one. Anderson is exactly the profile they have been crying out for.
He is dynamic, technically secure and already proven in the Premier League.
Hesitation will be punished. If Ratcliffe is serious about restoring United’s midfield dominance, this is the deal that sets the tone.
Pay the fee, win the race and build around him. Anderson ticks every box right now. Missing out on him would be a big blow.
Stats from Premier League website
