Manchester City’s reported pursuit of Elliot Anderson continues to gather momentum, but former club captain Kyle Walker has raised questions over whether the move would be the right fit for the club.
The midfielder has emerged as one of City’s key transfer targets as the club prepares for another campaign at the summit of English football.
With several senior players, particularly Bernardo Silva leaving, the club is expected to make significant adjustments to its squad before the transfer window closes.
Anderson’s performances have attracted widespread admiration, and City are understood to be willing to invest heavily to bring him to the Etihad Stadium.
Reports suggest the club have already seen two bids turned down, while a fee in the region of £130 million could ultimately convince his current employers to part ways with the highly-rated midfielder.
While many supporters would welcome the arrival of a player regarded as one of the brightest midfield talents in the game, Walker believes the discussion extends beyond the player’s quality or transfer value.
For the former England international, the bigger concern is how Anderson’s arrival could affect the balance of City’s midfield and, more specifically, the role of Rodri.
Walker raises concerns over Rodri’s place
Walker, who spent years alongside Rodri during one of Manchester City‘s most successful periods, admitted that Anderson possesses the talent to strengthen almost any team.
However, he questioned whether bringing another high-profile midfielder into an already competitive squad could create unnecessary complications.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Walker expressed concern about how City would accommodate both players in the same side.
“It’s obviously great for the football club, but what about Rodri? A Ballon d’Or winner we’re talking about here. Can you fit both of them in the team?
“Is Anderson gonna want to go further forward? Is Rodri gonna want to go further forward? For me, you kinda keep the squad as happy as you can do.
“And I know Rodri personally, and if someone comes in at £130m, you’re gonna want to play football. Is that gonna ruffle a few feathers? Hopefully not!”
While elite clubs are expected to strengthen year after year, introducing another star player can sometimes lead to difficult selection decisions and increased competition for places.
Rodri has been one of City’s most influential figures in recent seasons.
The Spanish midfielder has consistently been viewed as the heartbeat of the club, dictating play from deep positions and providing the defensive stability that allows attacking players to flourish.
His achievements have elevated him into conversations about the best midfielders in world football.
From controlling matches in the Premier League to producing decisive performances on the biggest stages, Rodri has become an indispensable part of City’s success.
For that reason, Walker believes any decision involving Anderson must take into account the status and importance of the Spanish international.
The former defender’s remarks are not intended to diminish Anderson’s ability. Instead, they underline the complexities of squad management at the highest level, where every major arrival has consequences for players already established in the starting line-up.
Walker rates Anderson highly but Rodri is crucial to the team
Despite his reservations, Walker made it clear that he views Anderson as an outstanding footballer and understands why Manchester City are interested in securing his services.
The midfielder’s technical quality, composure on the ball and ability to influence matches have made him one of the most sought-after players in the market.
At a time when the club may be preparing for life after Bernardo Silva, Anderson is widely regarded as a player capable of adding creativity, energy and versatility to City’s midfield options.
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Some observers have suggested that City could be signing Anderson with a long-term vision in mind rather than as an immediate replacement for any current first-team regular.
However, Walker believes that perspective overlooks an important fact: Rodri remains firmly in his prime years.
When asked whether Anderson could simply represent the future of City’s midfield, Walker pointed to Rodri’s age and continued excellence as evidence that there is no urgent need to replace him.
“Rodri’s not that old,” he added. “The only thing that was letting Rodri down in the last couple of seasons is the injuries.
“You still pick Rodri! He is the Ballon d’Or winner and what he’s done for the Premier League and for Manchester City is unbelievable.
“Listen, I think he’s a great signing if they can make it and put it over the line, but you need to make sure that things are still in place at home before you start venturing out.”
