Elliot Anderson completes record Man City transfer from Nottingham Forest

By SABC Sport
2nd July 2026

Manchester City have completed the signing of England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest in a transfer worth 116 million pounds, making the 23-year-old the most expensive British player in football history.

The deal surpassed the 115 million pounds that was committed for Jude Bellingham when he joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in 2023. Only Liverpool's signings of Alexander Isak for 125 million pounds and Florian Wirtz for 116.5 million pounds have cost more in Premier League history.

Anderson completed his medical in Kansas after receiving permission from the England camp, with the midfielder currently representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has started all four of England's matches during the tournament and will complete the remaining formalities of his move after returning to England.

Manchester City confirmed the agreement in an official statement.

"Manchester City and Nottingham Forest have reached an agreement for the transfer of Elliot Anderson.

"Anderson, 23, is currently competing at the FIFA World Cup with England and has completed a medical in Kansas. The formalities of the move will be finalised upon his return to England.

"In the meantime, everyone at Manchester City wishes Elliot and the England squad the very best of luck in their World Cup campaign and we look forward to welcoming him to Manchester in due course."

Anderson earned his move after an outstanding campaign with Nottingham Forest. He featured in every Premier League match last season, starting 37 games while scoring four goals and providing four assists.

His influence extended beyond attacking contributions, finishing among the league's top five players for both tackles and passes, highlighting the complete midfield qualities that attracted City's interest.

The England international also became the first signing of Manchester City's new era under head coach Enzo Maresca, who was appointed earlier this week to replace Pep Guardiola.