Manchester City sign Elliot Anderson in £116m transfer from Forest
Manchester City have completed the signing of England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth £116m.
The 23-year-old has committed his long-term future to the Premier League side by signing a five-year contract running until June 2031.
Initially agreed while the player was representing his country at the World Cup, the staggering fee briefly positioned him as the most expensive British player in history.
However, that landmark was subsequently surpassed by Morgan Rogers’ £117m switch from Aston Villa to Chelsea.
Determined to reach the highest level
The former Newcastle United academy graduate revealed he had no hesitation when the chance arose to join one of world football’s heavyweights.
“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.”
“As soon as I arrive in Manchester after a break, I will be doing everything I can to establish myself in the City team.”
A complete midfielder in the making
The dynamic playmaker established himself as an integral figure at the City Ground following his £35m arrival in 2024.
Last season, he topped the English top flight for both touches and duels won while driving his former employers to the Europa League semi-finals.
His dominant domestic performances earned him a pivotal role in Thomas Tuchel’s national side during their recent World Cup campaign.
The £116m fee comfortably eclipses the previous club record set when Jack Grealish arrived at the Etihad Stadium in 2021.
New era at the Etihad Stadium
The English international will now form a crucial part of a new era in Manchester under former Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola this summer.
City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, believes their new acquisition is one of the most outstanding young talents in world football.
“He offers energy, outstanding work rate and an exceptional range of passing,” Viana said.
“His improvement in recent years has been really impressive and underlines his desire to be the best player he can be.”
“At just 23, there is plenty of opportunity for development over the coming years and we feel he can become a complete midfielder.”