Insider backs Man City to blow Newcastle out of the water to complete marquee summer signing

Newcastle United could be set to miss out on agreeing a sensational return for Elliot Anderson as Man United and Man City battle it out for his signature.

The 23-year-old is widely expected to leave Nottingham Forest in the summer after an outstanding season despite the club’s precarious league position.

However, any hopes of a return to St James’ Park could be dashed as the Magpies will be unable to compete with their Manchester rivals financially.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Newcastle “would love” to re-sign Anderson but feel they are down the pecking order.

Pep Guardiola’s side are believed to be leading the race, while Man United will push for a deal, in what could be another difficult transfer window for Newcastle.

Newcastle losing in battle to sign Elliot Anderson

Football Insider revealed last month that Newcastle could miss out on signing Anderson given the strength of the rivals in their pursuit.

After a nightmare window last summer, Newcastle are no strangers to missing out on their top targets, and their financial restraints could prove tricky again.

“I’d be surprised to see Anderson go to Newcastle,” Brown told Football Insider.

“The big issue with Newcastle is the finances, they’re not going to be able to compete with the likes of Man City and Man United when it comes to transfers.

“We’ve seen over the last two seasons, they’ve been restricted and that’s been frustrating for them.

“Man City look like they’re the favourites to sign Anderson and we know about their spending power, and Man United will be prepared to spend big as well.

“I’m sure Newcastle would love to sign him, but it’s going to be difficult for them.

“Those two clubs are big admirers of his and I expect them to push, so from a Newcastle point of view, there’s a big possibility they could miss out.”

How much will clubs have to pay to sign Anderson?

The level of interest in Anderson’s signature, as well as his England performances, means it will cost a significant fee to prise him away this summer.

Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Nottingham Forest will demand £100million for Anderson this summer.

However, there is a feeling that clubs will not be willing to meet that price tag, and a deal could insead be agreed for around £80million after negotiations.

Should the midfielder go to the World Cup with Thomas Tuchel’s squad, he will have the opportunity to further enhance his reputation and price tag.

However, with Forest struggling towards the bottom of the Premier League table, they may be losing grip on their ability to demand a high fee.

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