Manchester City have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to sign midfielder Elliot Anderson in a British record transfer worth £116 million, making the 23-year-old the most expensive player in the history of English football.
The deal surpasses the previous British transfer record of £100 million, set when Manchester City signed Jack Grealish from Aston Villa in 2021. Anderson is expected to undergo a medical in New York before completing the formalities of a five-year contract with the Premier League champions.
The England international has emerged as one of the league’s standout midfielders following an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Nottingham Forest. Known for his energy, technical ability, and versatility, Anderson ranked among the Premier League’s top performers in successful take-ons, pressing, and ball recoveries, attracting interest from several elite European clubs.
Manchester City accelerated negotiations after the departure of Bernardo Silva to Real Madrid, identifying Anderson as the ideal replacement to strengthen Pep Guardiola’s midfield ahead of the new season. Club officials believe the youngster possesses the qualities needed to thrive in City’s possession-based system while adding dynamism and creativity in the final third.
Anderson joined Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in 2023 and quickly established himself as a key figure at the City Ground. His consistent performances played a crucial role in Forest’s successful campaign, significantly increasing his market value and making him one of England’s most sought-after midfielders.
The midfielder is expected to complete his medical on Friday before linking up with the England squad for their final Group L fixture against Panama.
The record-breaking transfer underlines Manchester City’s determination to maintain their dominance in domestic and European football by investing in emerging talent. If completed as expected, Anderson will become the latest high-profile addition to Guardiola’s squad as the club prepares to challenge for more silverware in the upcoming campaign.
