Forget Baleba & Wharton: Man United must sign 22yo midfield sensation with 84 PL appearances

The next player Manchester United needs to add to their roster is a midfielder.

This summer, head coach Ruben Amorim was looking for a young, athletic, dynamic midfield player, but INEOS put more emphasis on bolstering the attack.

Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion was approached, but the asking price of more than £100 million prevented them from formally expressing interest.

Adam Wharton, the Crystal Palace wonder, is also being actively watched by United as they keep tabs on his development.

In January or the summer of next year, we think the Red Devils ought to try to sign Elliot Anderson.

Elliot Anderson will be a shrewd addition

The 22-year-old has grown into one of the Premier League’s top up-and-coming players. Anderson earned a £35 million transfer to Nottingham Forest in 2024 after rising through the ranks at Newcastle United.

He deservedly received a call-up to the England squad because of his excellent play for the Tricky Trees.

He made his debut during Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Andorra, and his dominant performance earned him the prestigious Man of the Match honor.

The midfielder completed 107 passes with a 94% accuracy rate, showcasing his flawless ball distribution abilities.

In addition, he made 15 recoveries and played 20 passes into the last third. Anderson adds strength and athleticism to the park’s center.

He can now cover ground with ease and has increased game awareness.

He has already made 84 appearances for Newcastle and Forest in the English Premier League, giving him a wealth of experience.

Last season, the youthful player won over eight duels per league game and averaged 1.8 tackles.

A midfielder who can cover a lot of ground, press relentlessly, and move the ball well to their forwards is desperately needed by United.

If Forest struggles this season, Anderson might even be available at a discount because he has the ideal profile.

Despite finishing 7th last term, the shocking exit of manager Nuno Espirito Santo after tensions with the club hierarchy has threatened to destabilise the team.