Manchester City have had their opening offer for midfielder Elliot Anderson turned down by Nottingham Forest, as the race for the 23-year-old England international heats up ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

BBC Sport revealed last week that Anderson favours a switch to Etihad Stadium over a move to Manchester United. City have now made that interest official — though their first bid was swiftly rebuffed, according to The Athletic.

Expectation is growing across the game that Anderson will leave the City Ground before the summer transfer window closes. The Newcastle academy graduate turned in a standout campaign for Forest this season and earned a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, currently being staged across the US, Canada, and Mexico.

A potential record-breaking fee

Should a deal be struck, the transfer fee could surpass the British record — the £105 million Arsenal paid West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023. Anderson's departure from Forest would represent one of the most significant sales in the club's recent history.

Although Anderson is currently occupied with England's World Cup campaign, club-to-club negotiations between City and Forest are permitted to continue in the background.

City's midfield rebuild

The departure of captain Bernardo Silva has left City with a clear gap in midfield, and Anderson sits at the top of their list of potential recruits. Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali is also understood to be held in high regard at the Etihad, with reports suggesting the Italy international has been tracked as a long-term target.

Nico Gonzalez, who failed to secure a place in the Spain squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and fell out of favour under Pep Guardiola last season, could be moved on if an appropriate offer arrives.

Right-back also on the agenda

Beyond midfield, City are targeting a right-back to complement Matheus Nunes, 28, who impressed in the position this season after being repurposed from central midfield. The club are seeking a young, natural full-back capable of developing into the role over time.