Man City Complete Record £116m Signing of Elliot Anderson

Manchester City have officially completed the signing of England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest on a five-year contract, with the 23-year-old describing the move as one he was "determined to make happen."

The transfer, initially agreed during Anderson's time with England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was completed for £116 million, making him the second-most expensive British player after Morgan Rogers' subsequent £117 million move from Aston Villa to Chelsea.

Speaking after the announcement, Anderson admitted he had no doubts about joining the Premier League champions.

"As soon as I knew City wanted me, I was absolutely determined to make this move happen," Anderson said.

"You want to test yourself at the highest level. Being at City means I have that opportunity."

The midfielder joined Nottingham Forest from Newcastle United in 2024 for £35 million and quickly established himself as one of the Premier League's standout performers. 

He played a key role in helping Forest finish seventh in the league, secure European qualification for the first time in three decades, and reach the UEFA Europa League semi-finals.

Last season, Anderson led the Premier League in touches and duels won, while also becoming a regular for England under Thomas Tuchel, featuring in every match during the Three Lions' World Cup campaign.

Manchester City secured Anderson's signature despite strong interest from Manchester United. The deal was finalized shortly before England's World Cup group-stage match against Panama.

The midfielder now joins a new era at the Etihad Stadium under head coach Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola earlier this summer after the Spaniard ended his decade-long spell in charge.

"They're winners, they're relentless, and that's the sort of team I want to be a part of," Anderson said. "Over the last 10 or 12 years they've dominated, so that's why I wanted to join."

City's director of football Hugo Viana praised the club's latest signing, describing Anderson as one of the brightest midfield prospects in world football.

"He offers energy, outstanding work rate and an exceptional range of passing," Viana said. "At just 23, there is plenty of opportunity for development over the coming years, and we feel he can become a complete midfielder."

Anderson will report to Manchester City after his post-World Cup break as he looks to establish himself in Maresca's squad ahead of the 2026-27 season.