Manchester City are on the verge of completing one of the biggest transfers in Premier League history after agreeing a sensational £116 million deal with Nottingham Forest for highly-rated midfielder Elliot Anderson. The England international is scheduled to undergo a medical in New York, where he is currently with the national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, before finalising his blockbuster move to the Etihad Stadium.
According to multiple reports, City and Nottingham Forest have reached a full agreement on a fixed £116 million transfer fee with no add-ons, bringing an end to weeks of negotiations. The deal represents a club-record signing for Manchester City and one of the largest transfers ever involving an English player.
Medical Scheduled in New York
With England based in the United States for the World Cup, Anderson will complete his medical in New York rather than returning to England. This arrangement allows the midfielder to remain focused on international duty while the final paperwork is completed behind the scenes.
The transfer is expected to be officially announced once the medical is successfully completed and all contractual documents are signed.
A Rapid Rise to the Top
The move caps an extraordinary rise for the 23-year-old midfielder. Anderson came through Newcastle United’s academy before joining Nottingham Forest in 2024. His impressive performances quickly established him as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic midfielders.
During his time at Forest, Anderson developed into a complete midfielder, combining relentless energy, ball-winning ability, progressive passing and intelligent movement. His performances earned him a senior England call-up and a regular place in the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Why Manchester City Wanted Anderson
Manchester City’s pursuit of Anderson reflects the club’s determination to strengthen its midfield for the future.
Club officials reportedly see him as a player capable of complementing Rodri while providing exceptional athleticism, pressing intensity and creativity in central areas. His versatility allows him to operate as a defensive midfielder, box-to-box midfielder or advanced playmaker.
The signing is also viewed as a key step in City’s squad evolution following several high-profile departures and changes within the club. Reports suggest incoming manager Enzo Maresca views Anderson as one of the cornerstones of his new-look midfield.
Nottingham Forest Cash In
Although losing one of their standout performers is a major sporting setback, Nottingham Forest have secured a remarkable financial return.
The Midlands club signed Anderson from Newcastle United for around £35 million just two years ago. Selling him for £116 million represents one of the biggest profits ever made on a Premier League player.
Forest are already exploring replacements, with several midfield targets reportedly under consideration as they prepare for another European campaign.
What This Means for City
Manchester City have consistently invested in elite talent under their ownership, but Anderson’s transfer fee surpasses the club’s previous record expenditure.
Supporters will now expect the England midfielder to justify the enormous investment by becoming a key figure in City’s midfield for years to come. His combination of technical quality, work rate and leadership has convinced the club that he possesses the attributes required to thrive at the highest level.
The timing of the transfer also ensures City can integrate Anderson into preseason preparations immediately after the World Cup concludes.
What’s Next?
All attention now turns to Anderson’s medical in New York. If everything proceeds as expected, Manchester City will officially unveil their newest signing in the coming days.
The £116 million agreement marks another statement of intent from the Premier League giants as they continue building a squad capable of challenging for domestic and European honours.
For Anderson, it is the reward for years of rapid development and outstanding performances. For Manchester City, it is another bold investment in the future—and potentially one of the defining transfers of the 2026 summer window.
