Manchester United are reportedly targeting a promising young midfielder, with a staggering price tag of up to IDR 2.18 trillion (approximately £100 million), as a potential replacement for Casemiro, who is expected to depart at the end of the 2025-2026 season. This ambitious move comes as Manchester United, under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, appears to be enjoying a resurgence.
Currently, after 11 matches in the Premier League, Manchester United sit provisionally in 7th place with 18 points, a result of five wins, three draws, and three defeats. Despite these clear signs of improvement on the pitch, the club’s management is reportedly already planning significant steps for future squad reform.
A key area identified for strengthening is the central midfield. At present, Ruben Amorim’s squad primarily relies on Kobbie Mainoo as the sole recognized pure central midfielder. While other players like Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro operate as defensive midfielders, and Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount are attacking midfielders, the team is believed to lack a truly proficient, natural central midfielder.
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This critical void is set to become even more pronounced as one crucial slot is anticipated to open up, with reports suggesting that management will not extend Casemiro’s contract. The Brazilian defensive midfielder’s current deal is set to expire in June 2026, and he is reportedly keen on a move to Saudi Arabia once his tenure at Old Trafford concludes.
To address this impending gap in the heart of their midfield, Manchester United have reportedly identified a prime candidate: Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The 23-year-old has emphatically demonstrated his quality as a genuine English midfielder in the highly competitive Premier League, consistently proving to be a pivotal player for Forest with 11 starts.
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Anderson’s impressive club form has not gone unnoticed, earning him a call-up to the England national team. Remarkably, he has established himself as a starter in five out of six matches for The Three Lions, showcasing his rapid ascent and international pedigree.
According to insights from The Times, Manchester United are not expected to rush their pursuit of the former Newcastle United academy graduate. Nottingham Forest are reportedly unwilling to entertain any offers for Anderson during the January 2026 transfer window unless a club is prepared to meet their hefty valuation of £100 million, equivalent to approximately IDR 2.18 trillion.
This substantial asking price reflects Anderson’s current standing, and Manchester United will face stiff competition for his signature. Beyond the Red Devils, his former club Newcastle, along with fierce rivals Liverpool, are also rumored to be keen admirers of the talented midfielder.
