Revealed: Why Manchester City have been able to plant themselves ahead of Manchester United in the race for Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson this summer.
Manchester United's pursuit of midfield reinforcements in this summer's transfer window will be an ongoing story dominating the headlines.
The club have been linked with a number of high-profile names, with it being well documented that their list of possible signings include Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba.
The most recent reports have claimed that, despite keeping an eye on multiple targets, United will go 'all out' to try and convince Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson to join the club this summer.
With Casemiro already confirmed to be leaving and Manuel Ugarte being linked with a move to the continent, the club are determined to sign at least two new midfielders in the summer.
Why are Man City ahead of United for Anderson?
In line with multiple other reports, Roundtable understands that Anderson is United's bona fide first-choice target in midfield this summer, and that the club will launch an attempt to secure his services.
However, Manchester City are widely considered the front-runners for his signature, and Roundtable can reveal that this is, in part, due to their proactive engagement with the player.
Roundtable have been informed that City engaged in talks with Anderson's representatives as early as before Christmas, beating United to the initial punch.
These talks were said to have been positive, which has put City in the driving seat – although a decision from Anderson is far from being finalised.
United continuing to keep options open
Further, Roundtable has learned that United have held talks with Tonali's agent in recent days, suggesting that the club will continue to pursue multiple other midfielders alongside their pursuit of Anderson.
According to reports, United have also discussed the possibility of bringing in Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes.
Gomes is said to be a player who could provide either a cheaper alternative to Anderson or another premium target, while retaining a wealth of Premier League experience.
United's positive talks about signing Matheus Cunha from Wolves last summer may also give them an edge, should they try to sign the Brazilian midfielder.
It has also been stated that United are exploring the possibility of bringing in a new left-back this summer, with the likes of Barcelona's Alejandro Balde and Arsenal starlet Myles Lewis-Skelly linked.
There have also been reports suggesting that Crystal Palace's Tyrick Mitchell and Fulham star Antonee Robinson are on their list of possible left-back candidates for a 2026 summer transfer.