Manchester City have completed a club‑record signing, paying £116 million for 23‑year‑old Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The England U21 international moved to Forest for about £35 million in 2024 after developing at Newcastle. His arrival follows a season where Forest jumped from 17th to seventh, and the fee eclipses the previous £92 million record. The move signals City’s intent to dominate recruitment ahead of the Champions League.

City justified the outlay by citing Anderson’s dominance: league‑leading 3,300 touches, 297 duels, 80 fouls and 306 possessions won. He ranked in the top five for passes and tackles and added four goals, four assists. He also covered the second‑most distance in the league, highlighting his stamina. Such consistency earned him recognition as the league’s most effective presser.

City’s midfield needed refresh after Bernardo Silva’s free exit and doubts over Reijnders, González and Rodri. Anderson brings proven Premier League experience and can operate as a deep‑lying No. 6, box‑to‑box No. 8 or supporting No. 10. His high press and quick transition suit City’s possession style, giving Maresca tactical flexibility for the next decade. With his contract running until 2032, City secure a long‑term asset.