Anderson rejects Manchester United, leaning towards Manchester City! The number of "Red Devils' dream" players dwindles, and the new star may become the big winner

For Manchester United, their biggest fear seems to be coming true. Sources revealed to "TEAMtalk" that Manchester City, the Red Devils' local rivals, have approached regarding midfielder Elliott Anderson, prepared to offer a hefty transfer fee and have gained favorable feedback from the player's representatives.

The 23-year-old Anderson is set not to transfer in January, but a move to a major club in the summer is nearly guaranteed. Multiple sources confirm that Manchester City are acting swiftly, with manager Guardiola highly favoring Anderson. Even if Guardiola is rumored to leave, City's transfer team, including sporting director Viana, fully endorse Anderson's quality. In other words, regardless of who the manager is, it won't affect City's pursuit of Anderson.

Guardiola believes Anderson fits perfectly into his tactical system. This English midfielder can play as a central organizer or as a box-to-box number 8. Moreover, he possesses the technical skills and composure needed to excel in a possession-based system.

Manchester City have already contacted Anderson’s team, indicating their intention to formally express an acquisition offer during the summer transfer window. City's midfield requires fresh talent to succeed current key players like Rodri, and Anderson undoubtedly represents a strategically significant long-term investment.

This situation has caused great concern among other competitors, especially Manchester United. The Red Devils have always considered Anderson, a Newcastle United academy product, as a top choice to strengthen their midfield, alongside Brighton's Carlos Baleba. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos management team is well aware of Manchester City's advantage, with current Old Trafford stars Omar Belara and Jason Wilcox both originating from City.

Manchester City boasts a stable winning record and Champions League participation, which, if Guardiola remains in charge, offers the attractive prospect of playing under one of football's best managers. British media report that Anderson is very eager to join City, believing no transfer would better boost his career progression.

On social media, apart from Nottingham Forest, the only club Anderson follows is Manchester City. Thus, many rival clubs believe that once City submits a competitive offer, Anderson will be theirs, leaving no real chance for others to compete.

In the past, Manchester United was the dream destination for English and Premier League players. Berbatov was once close to joining City but changed his mind to Old Trafford after hearing about Sir Alex Ferguson's interest. Now, the situation has changed drastically. The "Red Devils' dream" players are becoming fewer with each generation.

When United last won the Premier League in 2013, Anderson was already 10 years old, so there are still Red Devils fans among his generation. However, younger players likely no longer dream of playing at Old Trafford. This greatly worries Sir Jim and the United management.

The only obstacle to Manchester City acquiring Anderson is likely his current club Nottingham Forest. Anderson is under a long-term contract until 2029. Forest has enough leverage to demand a substantial transfer fee, estimated to be between £80 million and £100 million.

There are also reports that if Anderson performs well for England in the upcoming World Cup, the transfer fee could rise even further. Additionally, other clubs, including Chelsea and Bayern Munich, are still considering entering the competition for Anderson's transfer.

The person happiest with United’s current situation is 20-year-old academy starlet Kobe Meno. Previously, under Rúben Amorim, he had no chance and was certain to leave, but after the coaching change, he is poised to become the biggest beneficiary. Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio stated that after Amorim's departure, United might not sell Meno but instead give him more playing time. If they fail to sign Anderson, whose position he could challenge in the England team, Meno’s opportunities will further increase.

Manchester United’s new head coach Carrick hinted at giving Meno a bigger role. When former teammate Rio Ferdinand asked if the midfield would be built around Meno, Carrick said: "Yes, I think for a club, having a player who came through the academy, knows the club inside out, and genuinely loves it, that’s the tradition at Manchester United. It always has been and always will be. And if someone has that kind of talent, you have to make the most of it. We need to help them, build around them, trust them, and move forward together. I believe he definitely has a place here, no doubt about it."

However, Carrick mentioned he might change Meno’s position. "In my view, he is more of an attacking player. I don’t see him as a defensive midfielder. He is better suited to a more advanced role where he has more freedom to express himself."