Chelsea are ready to rival Manchester City for the signing of Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, according to reports.
Anderson, 22, has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the last 18 months, establishing himself as a key figure at the City Ground following a £35million move from Newcastle.
In August, Anderson was rewarded for his outstanding form at club level with a first senior England call-up, going on to make his debut in the side’s 2-0 win over Andorra.
Anderson has quickly settled into life with England, making an immediate impression at the heart of Thomas Tuchel’s midfield, and the 22-year-old now appears a shoo-in for next year’s World Cup after the Three Lions secured qualification on Tuesday night.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Anderson’s eye-catching performances for both club and country have not gone unnoticed by the Premier League’s elite – and Forest bosses are aware of the growing interest.
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The Mirror suggests Manchester City are at the front of the queue for Anderson’s signature following his England breakthrough, with a the prospect of a bidding war becoming increasingly likely.
Pep Guardiola is said to be a ‘huge admirer’ and has made Anderson one of his ‘main transfer targets’ to replace Nico Gonzalez, who has fallen some way short of expectations at the Etihad.
There are also growing doubts over Rodri’s long-term future at City, with Real Madrid keeping close tabs on the Spaniard’s situation.
However, the report claims Chelsea are expected to provide ‘strong competition’ for Anderson and would be ‘keen on luring’ the England international to Stamford Bridge.
Anderson’s current contract with Forest, which he signed upon arrival at the City Ground, runs through to June 2029.
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Chelsea’s hierarchy prioritised strengthening Enzo Maresca’s attack in the summer transfer window, bringing in Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Pedro before the deadline.
Dario Essugo, the Blues’ sole addition in midfield, is yet to make a single appearance this season and is expected to be sidelined until the New Year following surgery on his thigh.
Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez are both considered undroppable under Maresca and Anderson would likely be competing for the third spot in Chelsea’s midfield should he complete a switch to west London.
‘That was the test and I think he passed the test,’ England head coach Tuchel said of Anderson’s impressive debut showing against Andorra.
‘He was a little nervous at the beginning of the training week – then he did good.
‘We are sure he can become a very good player.’
Anderson will have the perfect opportunity to impress Chelsea this weekend when Forest lock horns Maresca’s men in the Premier League.
Forest have endured a wretched start to the new campaign and sit just one point above the relegation zone after Ange Postecoglou took over the reins from Nuno Espirito Santo.
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