Man City submit opening offer for Maresca's first signing

4 Jun 2026 07:02 BST | 4 min read

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Accredited sports journalist covering football since 2020

Manchester City have submitted an opening offer for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, according to transfer expert David Ornstein.

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The England international has been earmarked as City’s primary target for the upcoming summer transfer window and they were keen to finalise a deal for his signature before the 2026 World Cup, but that now seems unlikely.

Current ETV

Elliot Anderson

M, DM (C)

N. Forest

Elliot Anderson

M, DM (C)

N. Forest

ETV Range

€51.9M - €63.4M

Anderson, 23, was one of the best midfielders in the Premier League last season, and he has been linked with a host of top English clubs in recent months, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, City quickly established themselves as the frontrunners in the race to sign him, amid their pursuit of a suitable replacement for the departing Bernardo Silva, and Anderson has been widely tipped to secure an Etihad Stadium switch before the summer window slams shut on 1 September.

The former Newcastle United star made 50 appearances for Forest across all competitions last season, registering nine goal contributions, and he is expected to become the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era at Man City.

The 46-year-old is yet to be formally announced as the new City boss, but it’s understood that he will be officially appointed as the club’s permanent replacement for Pep Guardiola shortly, having worked as the Spaniard’s assistant manager during the 2022-23 campaign.

© IMAGO - Man City want to sign Elliot Anderson

Man City submit first bid for Elliot Anderson - Ornstein

Man City have been tracking Anderson for several months and they have now lodged their opening offer for his services, according to Ornstein.

However, this first bid was immediately rejected by Nottingham Forest, who are determined to maximise the transfer fee they will earn if Anderson departs after a successful two-year spell at the City Ground.

Reports have speculated that a fee in excess of €120 million will be required to sign Anderson this summer, but the exact amount of City’s first offer hasn’t been revealed.

It’s understood that Forest are eager to retain Anderson’s services for at least another season if possible, however there is an acceptance that he will likely depart the club if their asking price is met.

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