Ratcliffe Ready to Go Big on Anderson as United Circle Forest Star

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is poised to open the chequebook for Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, as Manchester United plot a summer raid on their cross-city rivals' prime target.

United have already moved swiftly in the transfer market, with Atalanta midfielder Ederson's arrival at Old Trafford now rubber-stamped. The Brazilian, 26, will pocket approximately £70,000 weekly after completing his €40.5m (£35m) switch from the Serie A outfit.

Anderson remains the club's next priority in midfield, with United viewing him as a marquee addition to bolster their squad following Champions League qualification under Michael Carrick's stewardship. The Forest and England midfielder tops their shopping list alongside defensive reinforcements on the left flank.

The stumbling block? Manchester City have been leading the chase since March and are preparing another official bid after their initial approach was rebuffed by the East Midlands club. The Citizens remain favourites in most quarters, yet United sense an opportunity.

According to reports, Ratcliffe – typically keen on pruning expenditure since his arrival – is willing to loosen the purse strings considerably to land Anderson. The midfielder currently banks around £100,000 per week at Forest and will command a 50 per cent pay rise wherever he lands this summer. United's hierarchy believe they can convince him to choose Old Trafford over the Etihad.

Anderson, contracted to Forest until June 2029, is widely expected to seek pastures new regardless. The former Newcastle player will feature for England at the World Cup under Thomas Tuchel, giving both Manchester clubs the summer window to thrash out terms.

City's advantage – their superior Premier League finish and established winning pedigree – may count for less without Pep Guardiola's presence in the dugout. United, meanwhile, are banking on Ratcliffe's financial muscle and the pull of Champions League football to swing the deal.