Elliot Anderson Transfer To Manchester City Could Be Finalised In Coming Days, Tuchel Confirms

Elliot Anderson is close to sealing a transfer from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, with Thomas Tuchel expecting the deal to be finalised within the next two days. The decision about Anderson’s club future is set to come before England face DR Congo on Wednesday.

The England head coach discussed the situation after England’s 2-0 victory over Panama at the World Cup, confirming both the timing and Anderson’s fitness. Tuchel said of the expected switch, "I think there’s a high chance it’s sorted before the round of 32."

Anderson has become central to Tuchel’s tournament plans, starting in midfield against Panama after doubts over availability. With Declan Rice rested, Anderson operated as the lone pivot, making 93 touches, completing 63 of 70 passes, and winning nine of 16 duels in that group-stage match.

The midfielder’s importance is underlined by his minutes in Group L. Anderson played 248 minutes across England’s three fixtures, with Ezri Konsa on 270 and Harry Kane on 264 the only outfield players featuring for longer periods during the group phase.

Manchester City see Anderson as a major part of their plans after Pep Guardiola’s departure, with Enzo Maresca expected to take over at the Etihad Stadium. With Bernardo Silva leaving and Rodri dealing with injuries across the last two seasons, City intend to make Anderson the costliest English player ever.

Anderson was a leading performer in the Premier League last season, despite Forest’s struggle against relegation and their eventual safety under Vitor Pereira late in the campaign. Anderson led the division for touches with 3,300, possession wins with 306, duels won with 297 and fouls drawn with 80.

Tuchel praised Anderson’s presence and physical condition, stressing there were no health issues before the Panama game. Tuchel said, "He plays like he owns the place. There were no concerns [over his fitness], the medical staff gave the green light, he has no injury."

As England prepare for the round-of-32 tie with DR Congo, Anderson’s influence for club and country appears to be growing. His expected move to Manchester City, his World Cup minutes and his dominant Premier League metrics together underline why the midfielder now attracts such strong attention.