A new midfielder is on the cards for Real Madrid this summer and they have a chance to capitalise on the potential availability of one of Manchester United's top targets. Los Blancos have been linked with many names already ahead of the transfer window.
Elliot Anderson has yet to be named on their shortlist but he ticks all the boxes. The English midfielder has been superb for Nottingham Forest this season, posting one goal and three assists in 33 games across competitions.
The 23-year-old is a box-to-box midfielder who is excellent on the ball and reliable defensively, constantly pressing the opposition. His energy could be just what Madrid need along with his creativity.
Real Madrid need to rival Man Utd
Anderson is United's top target this summer, and there's a chance he will be available at a cut-price fee. Ben Jacobs has told The United Stand that if Forest are relegated, his price could drop.
It's thought that the Tricky Trees will be demanding £100m should they stay in the Premier League. Vitor Pereira's side sit 17th at the moment, three points above the drop zone with 12 games left.
Anderson looks to be on the move regardless of Forest's status come next season. He's also been linked with Manchester City who could be looking for a long-term Rodri replacement.
Madrid have found success signing English players recently after bringing Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold to the Bernabeu. Partnering Anderson with Bellingham could be extremely benificial given they are likely to be starters together at this summer's World Cup.
Tuchel hails Anderson
Anderson has become a starter for England under Thomas Tuchel. The German coach will oversee the Three Lions' World Cup campaign and seems intent on starting the Forest man at the tournament.
Tuchel spoke glowingly of the former Newcastle United midfielder last November. He said (via BBC Sport):
"He is an elite player with the right attitude and a lot of talent. He is fulfilling his role in the best way possible so we are very happy with him."
Madrid need to factor in players' personalities when conducting transfer business this summer. Signing talent with the right mentality is crucial to help with a rebuild.
Anderson has shown the potential to become a top performer not only in the Premier League but in world football. He has earned six caps for England and will surely be open to a move to the Bernabeu if the club were to come calling.