Elliot Anderson has privately informed Nottingham Forest’s hierarchy that he intends to terminate his contract and join Manchester City, according to multiple sources close to the situation. The 24-year-old Scotland international midfielder, who has been a standout performer in the Premier League since his £30 million move from Newcastle United in January 2023, has told club executives he no longer wishes to play for Forest under the current management structure.

The move would mark one of the most dramatic transfers of the summer, with Anderson joining a Manchester City squad already bolstered by recent signings such as Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise. Forest, meanwhile, would face a financial and sporting crisis, having invested heavily in Anderson’s development over the past 18 months. Club sources say Anderson’s frustration stems from a perceived lack of ambition at Nottingham Forest, despite significant financial backing from owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Forest’s sporting director, Neil Adcock, met with Anderson on Monday to discuss his future, but the player remained adamant. “He was very clear,” said a club insider. “He doesn’t see a pathway to success at Forest and believes City offers the best chance to win trophies.” Anderson’s contract with Forest runs until 2027, but he has invoked a clause allowing him to leave if a suitable bid is accepted. City’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, is expected to finalise the deal within days, with Anderson set to undergo a medical as early as Thursday.

The transfer would heap further pressure on Forest manager Steve Cooper, who has come under fire from supporters after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign. Anderson’s departure would leave a gaping hole in Forest’s midfield, particularly with the club still battling relegation fears. City, meanwhile, would gain a dynamic, high-energy midfielder capable of adding depth to their already star-studded squad. Anderson’s versatility—he can play as a central midfielder or a second striker—makes him an attractive option for Pep Guardiola’s system.

Forest’s financial situation adds another layer of complexity. The club paid a reported £30 million for Anderson, one of their highest-ever fees, and his exit would represent a significant loss. However, with the summer transfer window still open, Forest may seek to recoup some of their investment by selling other key players. The Anderson saga also raises questions about the club’s long-term strategy under Marinakis, who has repeatedly promised to build a competitive team but has yet to deliver consistent results.

The Anderson transfer could have ripple effects across the Premier League. If City secure his signature, they would signal their intent to retain their title despite the departures of key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland. For Forest, the loss would underscore the challenges of competing in England’s top flight without sustained success. Anderson, who has made 12 appearances for Scotland, would likely become a regular starter at City, adding to their already formidable midfield options.

1. Immediate impact — Anderson’s arrival would strengthen City’s depth ahead of the new season
2. Forest’s crisis — The club risks losing two top players in one summer, following Morgan Gibbs-White’s move to Aston Villa
3. Guardiola’s plan — The manager could use Anderson as a rotational option or a tactical tweak in high-pressure games

With the transfer window closing at midnight on August 1, all eyes are on Nottingham Forest’s next move. Whether they can replace Anderson—or even keep him—remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Elliot Anderson’s potential move to Manchester City could redefine the Premier League’s power balance before the season even begins.