Manchester United to explore £120m Carlos Baleba alternative

Last Updated on 28 October 2025

Manchester United’s midfield rebuild could take a new twist. With their pursuit of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba proving financially out of reach, they have turned their attentions to a new target.

Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have majorly played the pivot for Ruben Amorim but it is clear that Manchester United want a new no.6.

An English international has emerged as a potential target for the club hierarchy at Old Trafford but they will face stiff competition.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson targeted by Manchester United

The Red Devils are now weighing up a move for Nottingham Forest’s rising star Elliot Anderson, according to Sky Germany. Though the England international could command an eye-watering £120 million fee.

Manchester United’s summer transfer budget fell short of expectations, forcing them to shelve plans for a new central midfielder.

Carlos Baleba had impressed scouts with his dynamic performances at Brighton, but the Seagulls’ resistance and United’s restricted finances made a deal unworkable.

Now, with January and next summer’s windows in sight, Ruben Amorim is believed to be pushing for a player who can add mobility and balance to his midfield. The Portuguese coach wants energy and youth in that area, and Anderson ticks all those boxes.

Is Elliot Anderson really worth the £120m price tag?

The 22-year-old only joined from Newcastle for £35m but has since become one of Forest’s standout players, earning regular England call-ups after shining at last summer’s U21 Euros.

He also does not have a release clause and Forest owner, Evangelos Marinakis, is known to be a tough negotiator.

But beyond the valuation debate, Anderson’s on-pitch quality is also worth mentioning.

While he is a fantastic ball-winner, his ball-progression has been second to none in the Premier League, as well. In fact, no other player has more successful final third passes than Anderson with 156, as per WhoScored.