Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are reportedly preparing a major move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, one of the Premier League’s rising stars.

The 22-year-old has caught the attention of several top clubs after a standout year both domestically and on the international stage.

According to journalist Jeremy Cross, City are planning a £75 million swoop for Anderson as part of their long-term midfield strategy.

Guardiola is said to be a “big fan” of the England international and views him as an ideal addition to maintain the club’s high standards of control, creativity, and tactical intelligence.

City’s Midfield Evolution Under Guardiola

With the Premier League champions already planning for 2026, attention has turned toward securing the next generation of midfield talent.

The departures of Ilkay Gündoğan and ongoing uncertainty surrounding Rodri and Bernardo Silva’s futures have prompted the club to identify potential replacements who can adapt quickly to Guardiola’s demanding system.

Elliot Anderson has emerged as a standout candidate. Since his £35 million move from Newcastle United to Nottingham Forest, he has developed into a dynamic and composed midfielder known for his passing range, positional awareness, and calm under pressure.

His performances have not only solidified his place at club level but also earned him increasing recognition with the national team.

Anderson’s Profile Fits Guardiola’s Vision

Guardiola’s admiration for Anderson stems from his versatility and ability to dictate tempo — qualities that align perfectly with City’s possession-based approach.

The 22-year-old’s intelligence off the ball and ability to carry possession through tight spaces make him a potential long-term successor to Rodri, or even a complementary partner should the Spaniard remain at the Etihad.

Reports indicate that City’s officials would prefer to reach an agreement with Forest before next summer’s FIFA World Cup, allowing the player to focus on international duty without uncertainty over his future.

However, Nottingham Forest are expected to resist any approach unless an offer meets their valuation, particularly with Chelsea also showing strong interest.

Chelsea Competition and Rodri’s Future

Chelsea’s growing pursuit of Anderson could complicate City’s plans, but Guardiola’s influence and Manchester City’s proven pathway for player development may give them the upper hand.

For Anderson, the prospect of working under one of football’s most innovative managers could prove decisive in determining his next move.

Meanwhile, much of City’s midfield planning hinges on Rodri’s situation. The Spaniard has been linked with a possible move to Real Madrid, while summer arrival Nico Gonzalez has yet to fully settle into Guardiola’s system.

Should either of those situations evolve, Anderson’s potential signing could move higher on City’s priority list.

A Midfield Future in Transition

As City prepare for another chapter under Guardiola, the pursuit of Elliot Anderson reflects a broader strategy — investing in young, Premier League-proven talent capable of sustaining their dominance in both England and Europe.

Whether a deal materialises next summer will depend on Forest’s stance and how quickly City decide to act. But one thing is clear: Anderson’s rapid rise has placed him firmly on the radar of the Premier League’s elite, and Manchester City are watching closely.