Manchester United remain interested in Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, but they aren’t willing to break the bank to sign him.
The 23-year-old has been one of the most sought-after players in the Premier League this season. As it happens, the Red Devils and their crosstown rivals, Manchester City, are both in the market for a new midfielder, so both clubs have set their sights on the Whitley Bay native.
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On Monday evening, Casemiro produced another masterclass, as Man Utd went on to beat Brentford by two goals to one at Old Trafford and put themselves one step away from Champions League qualification.
The Brazilian’s exploits served as a stern reminder of what the club will miss next season, with the 34-year-old’s departure already confirmed.
INEOS will need to recruit at least two new central players to bolster the thin midfield department, and potentially three if Manuel Ugarte is sold.
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For Jason Wilcox and Co, Anderson has long been identified as the ultimate target, even though the likes of Adam Wharton, Sandro Tonali, and Aurelien Tchouameni have been floated.
But according to BBC journalist Simon Stone, MUFC will drop their interest in the 23-year-old should Forest insist on their £120 million price tag.
As the source explains, the club sets a cap for every target, including Anderson, whose reported valuation has been blown out of proportion.
Although Anderson is the main target, Man Utd’s ‘shortlist’ is brimming with top talent who could offer better value for the club’s money.
This includes Atalanta’s Anderson, who might be the ideal replacement for his compatriot, Casemiro. The 26-year-old contract will expire next year, so the Italian club could be willing to do business at around £30-40m.
Wharton is well-regarded at Carrington, but he’s considered incompatible with Kobbie Mainoo. On the other hand, Brighton enforcer Carlos Baleba represents a more suitable profile to play alongside the young Englishman, but his complicated campaign has raised a few red flags.
Finally, Tchouameni could be the perfect profile thanks to his great composure, top-level experience, and ideal playing age (26), but his availability hinges on Real Madrid finding a replacement.
So it remains to be seen how United will tread on this thorny front.