Nottingham Forest reject Man City’s first bid for Elliot Anderson

Nottingham Forest have reportedly rejected Manchester City’s opening bid for England midfielder Elliot Anderson.

City have identified Anderson as their top summer target but face competition from the likes of Manchester United who are reportedly also interested in the midfielder.

However, the citizens have formalised their interest with an official offer.

The bid has been turned down by Forest, but City are expected to return with an improved financial package.

According to reports, City bosses are not anticipating a swift resolution with Anderson now away with England at their World Cup training base in Florida.

England’s Elliot Anderson during a training session at Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. (Photo by JC Ruiz/PA Images via Getty Images)

Forest are hoping to generate a fee of around £120 million ($161m) while City’s initial valuation is closer to £80m ($107m). While City may be willing to go all in, United might not be willing to pay Forest’s valuation.

Reports also claim City are monitoring right-backs and right wingers ahead of the summer transfer window.

The club are looking for a young right-back to provide competition for Matheus Nunes, who was first-choice last season. City sources insist the club are happy with Nunes and are not looking to replace the 27-year-old.

Rico Lewis’ future is in doubt after a frustrating season at the Etihad Stadium. The 21-year-old has lost his place in the first team and is weighing up his options before making a decision on his future.

Meanwhile, City remain in talks about compensation owed to Chelsea before they are able to appoint Enzo Maresca as their new manager.

Maresca is expected to fill the void left by Guardiola, but the announcement, which was pencilled in for late last week, has been delayed by ongoing negotiations with Chelsea.