Manchester United are in hot pursuit of Elliot Anderson’s signature for the 2026 summer transfer window.
Signing a top-class midfielder is the top priority for Manchester United in 2026 and Elliot Anderson is the top target following his incredible form at Nottingham Forest this season.
With Casemiro confirming his exit at the end of the season, United need a long-term replacement for the Brazilian and Anderson is the perfect profile.
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Anderson’s stats this season are among the best in the Premier League, especially when it comes to tackles and dribbles completed.
But Anderson is expected to cost £75m which would take a sizeable chunk out of the budget. It is only a realistic deal if United qualify for the Champions League.
Man United need Champions League for Elliot Anderson deal
Finance expert Adam Williams previously revealed to United in Focus that qualifying for the Champions League is worth over £100 million to United’s transfer budget.
Now, journalist Chris Wheeler has confirmed that the financial boost from the Champions League is the only realistic avenue to affording Anderson this summer.
Speaking to The United Stand, Wheeler said: “United’s budget this summer will be night and day depending on whether they qualify for the Champions League.
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“They’ll effectively be working with two different budgets, two different shopping lists and two completely different plans.
“If United secure Champions League football and £100m-plus, that would be transformative. It would put them back at the top table in terms of the players they can attract and the salaries they can offer.
“Without a top-four or top-five finish, could United afford to pay Elliott Anderson’s wage demands? I’m not so sure.”
Casemiro exit will free up funds for Elliot Anderson
As well as the potential financial boost from Champions League football, Casemiro’s exit will also give Ineos plenty of flexibility in the wage bill.
Casemiro is United’s highest earner on a wage of around £350,000 per week. That equates to £18.2 million over the course of a year.
While United could have extended Casemiro’s deal, allowing him to depart will free up funds to go and lure Anderson to Old Trafford.
United will be able to offer Anderson a significant pay rise from his current terms at Forest, but in order to win the race for his signature Ineos will have to compete with offers from the likes of Manchester City, who are also interested in a deal.
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