Manchester City are exploring a fresh approach in their efforts to secure Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, with club officials now focusing on restructuring the bonus elements of a proposed deal in an attempt to break the deadlock between the two sides.
The 23-year-old has emerged as City’s leading midfield target ahead of the new campaign, and negotiations have intensified over recent weeks.
However, despite several rounds of discussions and two formal offers, Forest remain firm in their valuation of one of their most prized assets.
City’s latest proposal is understood to have fallen short of Forest’s expectations, prompting the club’s recruitment team to reassess how the overall package can be presented.
Rather than increasing the guaranteed transfer fee, Fabrizio Romano revealed that the Manchester club are considering a revised bonus structure that could make it easier for Forest to receive the additional payments attached to the deal.
The development highlights City’s determination to complete a move that is expected to become one of the most expensive transfers in British football history if an agreement is eventually reached.
City seek breakthrough in negotiations
Talks between the two clubs have been ongoing for several weeks, with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis standing firm during negotiations.
City previously submitted offers, including a package worth £106 million alongside a further £15 million in performance-related add-ons.
Those proposals were rejected, with Forest believed to be seeking a total package in the region of £130 million.
The Premier League side are also understood to want at least £110 million guaranteed before any additional clauses are considered.
Despite the ongoing disagreement over finances, progress has already been made elsewhere.
Personal terms have reportedly been agreed between City and Anderson, indicating the player’s willingness to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium.
The midfielder has also received permission from England manager Thomas Tuchel to complete a medical examination once a final agreement is reached, despite his international commitments in North America.
The situation has also become less complicated following Manchester United’s decision to withdraw their interest in the player earlier this month.
- Man City plotting over £200m deal for two superstars to fight for League title again
- Former Man City player exposes VAR controversy after ‘unbelievable’ World Cup incident
United had been viewed as City’s main rivals for Anderson’s signature, but their exit from the race has left City as the only club actively pursuing a deal.
As a result, attention has shifted away from competition for the player and towards finding a financial formula that satisfies both clubs.
Maresca keen to strengthen squad before pre-season
Although it remains unclear whether the proposed changes will form part of a brand-new offer or simply represent modifications to discussions already taking place, the latest developments indicate that City are not prepared to abandon their pursuit.
Instead, the club appear focused on finding common ground with Forest and reaching a compromise that allows the transfer to move forward.
The negotiations are particularly significant because new Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca is understood to view Anderson as a key addition to his midfield options ahead of the upcoming season.
Maresca is believed to be eager to welcome the England international before the squad returns for pre-season preparations and embarks on its summer tour.
