Manchester City’s £116m Anderson deal sets the stage for Tonali pursuit

Manchester City have completed a club-record £116 million deal for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, pending a medical, as they continue to reshape their midfield under incoming manager Enzo Maresca. The move follows months of tracking Sandro Tonali by City’s recruitment staff, who view the Italy international as a key target to reinforce their midfield spine. Tottenham Hotspur have led the pursuit for Tonali this summer, but Manchester City’s intervention has forced Newcastle United into a defensive stance. According to reporting by The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards, Manchester City have maintained regular dialogue with Newcastle regarding Tonali. City’s interest in the 26-year-old has been monitored for over a year, with the club requesting updates on any potential sale.

Manchester City’s five‑signing summer plan hinges on Elliot Anderson

Sandro Tonali is understood to be intrigued by Tottenham’s interest but acknowledges that a bid from Manchester City would present a major decision. Sources at Newcastle reportedly expect City to escalate their pursuit following the Anderson deal. Hugo Viana, Sporting Director at Manchester City, is overseeing a fluid transfer strategy that includes potential reinforcements across multiple positions. The club has reportedly set a £45 million valuation cap for Chelsea’s Malo Gusto as a right-back option. City’s assessment of Tottenham’s pursuit of winger Savinho could further complicate the situation, potentially prompting Viana to seek additional wide attackers if the Brazilian departs. Sandro Tonali would not conclude Manchester City’s midfield ambitions. With Enzo Maresca set to begin his tenure in the coming days, the club’s focus remains on building a physically imposing and versatile midfield core capable of controlling play in the Premier League.