Anderson (in white) is currently in the USA with England at the World Cup, where he has started its two group games so far. | Photo Credit: AFP

Manchester City has agreed a potential British record transfer fee to sign England midfielder Elliot Anderson from fellow Premier League club Nottingham Forest, according to multiple media reports on Thursday.

Britain’s Press Association and the BBC reported that City had agreed a deal worth up to £130 million ($171.5 million) for the 23-year-old.

The current British transfer record is the £125 million Liverpool paid Newcastle United for Alexander Isak last year.

Forest had reportedly rejected two previous bids from City for Anderson.

The midfielder is currently in the United States with England’s World Cup squad, although the move could be officially confirmed before the end of the tournament.

Anderson told BBC Sport this week that his focus remained firmly on England rather than his club future.

“It’s pretty easy really, I’m just focusing on the present, I’m blocking it all out,” he said.

“I’ve got a plan and it’s to perform for England. I’m putting myself in the best position to cross the line and do that.”

England faces Panama in its final Group L match in New Jersey on Saturday and could have already secured a place in the Round of 32 by then.

Anderson started both of England’s opening matches, the 4-2 victory over Croatia and the goalless draw against Ghana.

England manager Thomas Tuchel described Anderson as the “full package” during the team’s World Cup preparation camp and expressed confidence that City’s interest would not distract him.

City finished second behind Arsenal in the Premier League last season, Pep Guardiola’s final campaign in charge, but lifted both the FA Cup and the League Cup.

Forest spent much of last season battling relegation before a strong finish secured a 16th-place finish and Premier League safety.

Published on Jun 26, 2026