Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make a formal approach for Elliot Anderson, aiming to get ahead of their arch-rivals Manchester City in the race for the highly-rated midfielder. According to GiveMeSport, the Red Devils are looking to table an early proposal for the Premier League "revelation," who has a big decision to make on his future in the coming months.

Anderson has been a standout performer for Nottingham Forest this season, earning praise from former Forest star Andy Reid for his impressive displays. Despite Forest's Europa League semi-final run, their Premier League survival was only secured last weekend, making it a stressful campaign for the squad. That could push Anderson to seek a move higher up the table, where he can compete for silverware and play Champions League football.

The 23-year-old Newcastle United graduate is also poised to feature in his first major international tournament next month with England, after impressing enough to earn a spot in Thomas Tuchel's squad. That exposure is likely to attract even more interest from top clubs across Europe.

With the two Manchester clubs leading the chase, Anderson could command one of the highest transfer fees in recent years. For United, moving early could give them the edge over their city rivals, as they look to strengthen their midfield with a player who has proven himself in the Premier League. Nottingham Forest will be bracing for a flurry of offers, but the allure of Champions League football and trophy contention might be hard for the young star to resist.