Manchester City could be preparing to shift their transfer focus this summer as uncertainty continues to surround their pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
The Cityzens have identified the England youth international as one of their preferred targets, but negotiations have proven difficult after Forest rejected City’s initial approach.
With a significant gap remaining between the two clubs’ valuations, attention is now turning towards another highly-rated midfielder who has already established himself at the highest level of European football.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali is emerging as a serious alternative should City fail to secure Anderson’s signature.
The Italian midfielder has been admired by several top clubs, and developments over the coming weeks could determine whether the Sky Blues decide to intensify their interest.
Tonali emerges as key alternative to Anderson
Manchester City have spent recent months assessing potential additions to strengthen their midfield options ahead of another demanding campaign.
While Anderson remains an attractive target because of his age, versatility and long-term potential, City’s recruitment team are understood to be exploring other possibilities in case talks with Nottingham Forest reach a dead end.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained how the situation is currently developing.
“Manchester City are considering the possibility of going all in on Sandro Tonali if they can’t get Elliot Anderson. So, just to recap, Anderson bid from Man City to Nottingham Forest – rejected.
“Man City are prepared to offer important money to the boy, but if they can’t agree a deal with Nottingham Forest (and Man United are closely following the situation), in that case, the number two option… is Sandro Tonali.
“So Man City are keeping a close eye also about the situation of Tonali at Newcastle.”
The comments highlight City’s growing concern that a deal for Anderson may not be straightforward. Forest remain determined to retain one of their most valuable young assets and have shown little indication that they are willing to lower their demands.
Anderson enjoyed an impressive campaign and has attracted admiration from several clubs due to his technical ability, work rate and maturity despite his relatively young age.
Such qualities have made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in English football.
Arsenal interest could complicate City’s plans
Any attempt by Manchester City to recruit Tonali may also be complicated by interest from elsewhere in the Premier League.
Romano revealed that Arsenal are also monitoring the midfielder’s situation and have already made enquiries through representatives connected to the player.
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“We will have to follow that to see what’s going to happen, also with other clubs about Tonali, because another club really appreciating Sandro Tonali is Arsenal.”
“Arsenal also like Tonali. Arsenal also have been in contact with people close to Tonali. So there is also Arsenal interest in Sandro Tonali. But for Manchester City could become a priority if and only if they can’t get Elliot Anderson.”
Competition between Arsenal and Manchester City has become a recurring theme in recent years, both on the pitch and in the transfer market.
The possibility of the two clubs pursuing the same player would only add another layer of intrigue to the summer window.
