Chelsea eye £75m Premier League star but face Man Utd and Man City battle

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to enter the race for Elliot Anderson's signature, with Chelseaand Manchester City also been keeping tabs on the 22-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in English football.

The Nottingham Forest midfielder has become a highly sought-after talent following his impressive debut with the England team. United, keen to bolster their midfield, have also shown interest in Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace's rising star Adam Wharton. However, they hold a particular admiration for Anderson, who earned his first senior cap for England in September and is now considered a likely contender for a starting spot in next year's World Cup.

Anderson was sold by Newcastle for £35million last year in a move that was seen as a significant loss for the club, but necessary to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules. Since then, his performances as a defensive midfielder and his ability to make forward runs have caught the eye.

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Despite the growing interest in Anderson, now valued at around £75million, Forest are determined to retain their prized asset and are not looking to sell, reports the Mirror. City are reportedly seeking to strengthen their midfield as Rodri struggles to regain full fitness. Chelsea, known for their successful acquisitions of young English talent, are also well equipped in this area.

United splashed considerable funds during the summer window on their attacking options, investing over £200million on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. However, a late summer approach for Baleba was knocked back by Brighton, though it demonstrated United's desire for squad restructuring.

Anderson remains tied to Forest until June 2029 and would require a substantial transfer fee. He's become an integral figure for the club, featuring for the complete 90 minutes in all 10 of Forest's Premier League and Europa League fixtures this campaign.

United approached Brighton regarding Baleba's availability during the summer transfer period, though the approach proved fruitless as the Seagulls maintained their asking price. "I don't think Baleba was a saga," Brighton owner Tony Bloom told The Argus recently.

"There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn't available this summer and they went away. So we've had many bigger sagas in the past. But Carlos Baleba, his improvement has been immense. Massively important player to this football club, and just delighted that he's with us for this season."