Manchester United and Manchester City are set to go head-to-head in the summer transfer window with both clubs targeting ‘similar midfield targets’.
Central midfield is the area of focus for both teams ahead of the transfer window, with mutual targets on either side of the Manchester divide.
Elliot Anderson is understood to feature highly on the wish-list of both clubs. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has had an outstanding season in a struggling side, emerging as an England regular under Thomas Tuchel in the process.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Anderson is Manchester City’s ‘top target’ with the Citizens pushing hard to sign the 23-year-old. United also like Anderson, who is part of an extensive shortlist of options.
High on that wish-list is Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is exploring an exit from St James’ Park. However, City are also informed on Tonali’s situation at Newcastle, as are Arsenal.
Newcastle are reluctant to let the Italy international leave and would demand a fee of around £100m to sell Tonali.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is another name appreciated at both Manchester clubs.
Fabrizio Romano predicts Manchester transfer battle over midfield targets
Speaking on his social media, Romano provided an update on the current situation around shared transfer targets
“Very high on Manchester City’s shortlist for a midfielder remains Elliot Anderson. Manchester City are very interested. City consider Elliot Anderson as a top player. They are considering a move and he is a player they really, really like and appreciate,” Romano said.
“They do not want to disturb Nottingham Forest in the middle of a relegation battle, so nothing is changing now. But Manchester City are on it for Elliot Anderson, who is another player appreciated by Manchester United.
“The situation as of today. Manchester United strongly interested in Sandro Tonali and also liking Elliot Anderson, but Manchester City are pushing. Manchester City pushing and really like Elliot Anderson, but also closely following the situation of Sandro Tonali. So the two clubs are watching similar players.”
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