Manchester City‘s pursuit of Elliot Anderson has encountered another significant hurdle after Nottingham Forest reportedly turned down a second improved offer for the midfielder.
The Sky Blues are determined to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season and have identified Anderson as one of their leading transfer targets.
However, negotiations have proven far from straightforward, with Forest showing little willingness to compromise on their valuation of the England international.
The latest development comes after City returned with an enhanced proposal following the rejection of their initial approach last week.
Despite the increased bid, Forest remain unmoved and continue to insist on a larger financial package before considering any sale.
Reports indicate that City’s revised offer is worth £106m upfront, while the overall package could rise to approximately £120m through performance-related bonuses and additional clauses.
Such a figure would surpass the British transfer record previously set when Arsenal secured Declan Rice.
Even with the possibility of receiving a record-breaking fee, Forest are understood to be standing firm in negotiations.
The club’s position has left City facing the prospect of submitting a third bid if they are to make meaningful progress in discussions.
Forest maintain strong negotiating stance
Forest’s confidence in negotiations appears to stem from growing interest in Anderson from elsewhere in the Premier League.
Manchester United have also been linked with the midfielder, a factor that has strengthened Forest’s bargaining position despite City’s aggressive pursuit.
According to reports, the East Midlands side are demanding £120m as a guaranteed fee before any additional bonuses are taken into account.
That valuation significantly exceeds City’s current proposal and underlines the gap that remains between the two clubs.
The timing of City’s move suggested a strategy designed to gain an early advantage in the market. With the summer transfer window still yet to officially open, the Sky Blues attempted to move quickly in an effort to avoid a lengthy transfer battle.
Instead, Forest have used the strong interest in their player to increase the pressure on potential buyers.
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Their refusal to soften their stance has transformed what appeared to be a straightforward transfer into one of the summer’s most closely watched negotiations.
Alternatives remain available as City consider next move
Should negotiations continue to stall, Manchester City are unlikely to be left without alternatives.
One name frequently mentioned as a potential option is Sandro Tonali. The Newcastle United midfielder has long been admired across Europe and possesses many of the qualities City seek in a central midfielder.
Any move for the Italian international would still require a substantial financial commitment. Newcastle would almost certainly demand a significant fee to part with one of their key players.
However, there is a belief that Newcastle’s asking price may not reach the extraordinary levels currently being quoted for Anderson.
That possibility could provide City with valuable leverage during ongoing discussions. Even the suggestion that they are exploring alternative targets may encourage Forest to review their expectations.
