(DDM) – Manchester United are reportedly preparing to break their transfer record in a bid to outmaneuver Manchester City in the race for key talent, while a striker signing is reportedly nearing completion and Barcelona intensify their pursuit of a teenage prodigy.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that United are targeting Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, a 23-year-old England international, for a potential £100 million transfer.
This figure would surpass Paul Pogba’s £89.3 million move, setting a new benchmark at Old Trafford.
Reports indicate that Anderson had initially shown interest in joining Manchester City, but United are refusing to concede, signaling a strong determination to secure the midfielder’s signature.
Forest appear prepared for life without Anderson, reportedly lining up Lyon’s Tyler Morton as his successor.
Morton, formerly of Liverpool, has impressed in Ligue 1 and could return to the Premier League after a single season abroad.
Alongside Anderson, Manchester United are also seeking reinforcements in attack. Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly back on United’s radar.
The 28-year-old France international is refusing to renew his contract at Selhurst Park, and with a contract expiring in 2027, his asking price may fall from the previously quoted £40 million.
Mateta has scored 37 Premier League goals since the 2023/24 season and would add competition to Benjamin Sesko while potentially pushing Joshua Zirkzee out.
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, is reportedly focused on retaining 15-year-old forward JJ Gabriel, a prodigious talent who has already netted 10 goals in 10 Under-18 matches this season.
Barcelona are making a “serious” attempt to sign Gabriel, highlighting the challenge United face in keeping their teenage sensation. While confidence remains high within the club about Gabriel staying, United cannot fully relax until Barcelona’s interest is formally dismissed.
The potential arrivals of Anderson and Mateta, coupled with the retention of Gabriel, could significantly accelerate Ruben Amorim’s project at Old Trafford, strengthening the squad across midfield and attack.
Analysts suggest these moves indicate United’s ambition to challenge City domestically and rebuild a squad capable of European contention.
Football insiders note that if both transfers materialize, United would face significant financial outlay but would simultaneously secure a blend of youthful potential and proven Premier League talent.
Anderson’s midfield creativity and Mateta’s goal-scoring prowess could complement existing stars, providing tactical flexibility and attacking depth.
The ongoing transfer saga emphasizes the intensifying rivalry with Manchester City, as well as the threat posed by European giants like Barcelona, who remain active in scouting young talent.
United’s success in these negotiations will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike, as the club seeks to re-establish dominance in both domestic and continental competitions.