Sources: Newcastle could miss out on re-signing Elliot Anderson as new favourite revealed
Newcastle’s chances of re-signing Elliot Anderson are decreasing, with Man City now the favourites to seal his signature this summer.
The Magpies are keen on reuniting the 23-year-old with Eddie Howe ahead of next season, but they are trailing behind numerous top Premier League clubs in the race for his services.
Anderson has been a key man in the middle of the park for Nottingham Forest over the last 18 months, while also earning recognition on the international stage with England.
His strong form has seen Man City and Man United both linked to his services, with the latter making him a priority in terms of midfield signings this summer.
Newcastle have also been touted to join the race for Anderson, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, they look set to be beaten to his signature by another top Premier League side.
Newcastle are down the pecking order in Elliot Anderson race
Anderson came through Newcastle’s youth ranks and appeared 55 times for their first team between 2021 and 2024 before being sold to Forest as they aimed to comply with PSR rules.
Forest are set to demand around £100million for his signature this summer, with the Magpies unlikely to be able to afford such a lofty fee.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “It’s fair enough to say that Newcastle are down the pecking order in that race to sign Elliot Anderson.
“Eddie Howe’s openly admitted he would love the opportunity to bring him back to the club, he didn’t really want to sell him when they sold him to Nottingham Forest in 2024.
“Anderson has really kicked on since that move. He has really impressed for Forest, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most accomplished central midfielders.
“He’s going to be in huge demand this summer, there’s no doubt about that. Manchester City are regarded as the favourites for his signature if he does end up leaving Forest.
“I don’t think Newcastle, especially if they’ve got no Champions League football to offer next season, will be in any position to offer (£100million) due to PSR, FFP, so it looks like one that’s probably going to be beyond them in the summer transfer window.”
Newcastle could move for Lorenzo Pellegrini instead of Anderson
Midfield has been a problem area for Newcastle this season, with Joelinton not performing to his best, and the likes of Jacob Ramsey and Joe Willock struggling to make an impact as back-up players.
Sandro Tonali’s future is being heavily discussed in the build-up to the summer window, and so the Magpies are bound to be targeting additions to the middle of the park.
Sources have told Football Insider that Newcastle are interested in a summer move for Roma’s Pellegrini, who can play in numerous midfield positions and has featured over 300 times for his boyhood club over the last 11 years.
Leeds are also eyeing a move for the Italy international, but a move St James’ Park is set to be a more attractive proposition, especially if the Magpies qualify for the Champions League.