Manchester City’s Elliot Anderson Pursuit to Hinge on Rodri Situation Ahead of Summer Window

Manchester City’s interest in Elliot Anderson is expected to depend heavily on developments surrounding Rodri’s long-term future, according to a new report, as the Premier League champions continue planning for a major midfield evolution.

Anderson has emerged as one of the most highly-rated midfielders in English football following a series of impressive seasons with Nottingham Forest. The 23-year-old England international is reportedly valued at around £100 million, reflecting both his importance to Forest and the growing level of elite interest in his profile.

City strengthened their midfield options in January 2025 with the signing of Nico Gonzalez, who has performed reliably during periods when Rodri has been unavailable. Gonzalez’s presence has provided Pep Guardiola with short-term stability, but longer-term questions remain as City assess the durability and future workload of their Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder.

Rodri, now 29, has 18 months remaining on his current contract at the Etihad Stadium. While there is confidence internally that a renewal can be agreed, his recent injury history has forced City’s hierarchy to consider succession planning more seriously than at any point during Guardiola’s tenure.

The Spaniard’s red card against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League underlined the challenges of his return to peak condition. Still working his way back after an injury-hit 15-month period, Rodri has been leaned upon heavily as City attempt to stabilise their form during a difficult start to 2026.

With City having already invested in Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki as part of their midfield refresh, director of football Hugo Viana is now assessing whether further elite additions are required to future-proof the squad.

According to Mail Sport’s Jack Gaughan, Manchester City’s pursuit of Anderson will largely depend on how Rodri performs and holds up physically during the remainder of the season. Should doubts persist over Rodri’s long-term availability, City could accelerate their interest in Anderson as a cornerstone signing for the 2026/27 campaign.

Forest remain keen to retain Anderson and are under no immediate pressure to sell, but City’s financial power and long-term sporting project could yet prove decisive if they choose to formalise their interest.

Conclusion

Elliot Anderson represents a strategic, long-term midfield option for Manchester City, but any move is closely tied to Rodri’s fitness, form, and contractual future. As Guardiola and Hugo Viana continue shaping the next phase of City’s rebuild, the coming months may determine whether Anderson becomes a central figure in the club’s evolving midfield hierarchy.

FAQ

• Q: Why are Manchester City interested in Elliot Anderson?
  A: City view Anderson as a high-upside, long-term midfield option amid concerns over Rodri’s workload and injury history.
• Q: How much is Elliot Anderson valued at?
  A: Nottingham Forest are believed to value the midfielder at around £100 million.
• Q: How does Rodri’s contract affect this transfer?
  A: Rodri has 18 months left on his deal, and City’s decision on Anderson may depend on Rodri’s fitness and renewal status.
• Q: Has Manchester City already strengthened midfield recently?
  A: Yes, City signed Nico Gonzalez in January 2025 and added Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki as part of their rebuild.
• Q: Is a summer move likely?
  A: A deal is possible but not guaranteed, with City expected to reassess after the remainder of the season.