The conclusion of the 2025/26 Premier League season means that the rumour mill surrounding Manchester United’s transfer plans has once again gone into overdrive. But it doesn’t take an expert to realise where most of the club’s funds will be focused this summer.
Casemiro’s departure means that the Red Devils are on the lookout for an elite defensive midfielder who can operate alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Atalanta’s Ederson has been closely linked with the club, but a second signing will be necessary if United want to close the gap to Arsenal and Manchester City.
And while Ederson might be a useful player for Michael Carrick, it feels like United could acquire a player of more proven Premier League quality. This is why attention should be squarely focused on Elliot Anderson once a deal for Ederson is struck.
Anderson’s Impressive 2025/26 Season by the numbers
While Ederson’s experience in a top league like Serie A makes him a sensible target, he was not putting up the kind of statistics that Anderson managed in a Nottingham Forest side that struggled for much of the season.
The England international led his team in tackles throughout the campaign (104), while his 41 interceptions also ranked among the top 15 for Premier League players this year. But while his defensive capabilities are impressive, his progressive passing is what separates him from United’s other potential new midfielder.
While Ederson managed a total of three big chances created in Serie A this season, Anderson managed nine. Additionally, he averaged more key passes per game, indicating that he is a more rounded midfield option than Ederson.
United have closely monitored the Forest star for months and presently, they are 7/2 to sign Anderson. If our Indian readers like those odds, they can check out the best betting sites recommended by Goal.com where they can place a wager on his next club.
A deal would not be cheap, with some reports detailing that any deal for Anderson could break the transfer record for a British player. But it has the potential to transform United’s engine room this season in the same way Declan Rice has impacted Arsenal since his move from West Ham.
United can take advantage of City’s interest in a different midfielder
United’s odds of signing Anderson are shorter than all but Man City, who are 1/2 to make a move for the England international. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe might be able to steal a march on their rivals by prioritising a move for Anderson in the coming weeks.
City are in a period of transition following the departure of Pep Guardiola. Enzo Maresca is reportedly set to replace the Spaniard and, according to new reports, is interested in a reunion with Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez.
Any move for the Argentine won’t come cheap and, if City do prioritise Fernandez, that could leave United with an open run at Anderson this summer. Considering how quickly transfer sagas can move, though, it’s important that they make a move while their rivals’ attention is elsewhere.