Troy Deeney: This is why Man City must sign Elliot Anderson, Rodri claim is made 

Troy Deeney has claimed that Manchester City should look to sign Elliot Anderson as Rodri’s long-term replacement.

The midfielder has continued to impress under Vitor Pereira, and netted a late equaliser at the Etihad to earn the visitors a precious point.

In recent weeks, the 23-year-old has been linked to numerous clubs, especially with Forest under serious threat of relegation.

However, after his recent display, Deeney has claimed that the England international could one day replace Rodri as Man City’s accelerating transfer plans continue to look long-term.

Troy Deeney: Elliot Anderson is perfect long-term Rodri replacement

While Rodri has continued to be a key player for Man City, his performance levels have dipped in recent times.

The former Ballon d’Or winner is yet to reach his previous heights since recovering from his ACL injury last season.

On top of this, injuries have continued to plague the midfielder’s campaign, with the 29-year-old missing numerous matches due to hamstring and knee issues.

This dip has had a knock-on effect on Man City’s league position, with the club all but certain not to win the title this campaign, barring a shock Arsenal collapse.

Elliot Anderson finds the net from range to pull Nottingham Forest level once again against Manchester City 🎯@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Wp5o9RJKB8— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 4, 2026

Now, after Anderson’s performance at the Etihad, Deeney has called on Man City to sign the Forest star.

He told BBC Sport on 6 March: “It was one of those performances that make you think he will probably be at Manchester City one day.

“The goal was a great hit, and he broke up play really well. He also manages to make 25 fouls a game, but never gets a card!

“I think he would be a good replacement for Rodri one day. If Manchester City cannot get Rodri back to the level he was fitness-wise, then they need Anderson next to him, or they move Rodri on and put Anderson in.”

Who else is linked to Anderson?

Man City face a major battle to win the race, with Football Insider recently revealing that Anderson is on Manchester United’s shortlist.

The Forest star’s form this season has won many admirers at Old Trafford as they look to replace Casemiro as the Brazilian prepares for his summer departure.

Chelsea have also been linked with the England international. However, Man City remain the favourites to seal the deal.

It remains to be seen if Forest are able to keep themselves in the top-flight, with a relegation back down to the Championship likely to damage their resolve.

Currently, the Reds are above the drop zone on goal difference alone, with Pereira yet to win a league game at the City Ground.

Nevertheless, only time will tell if Pep Guardiola’s side can get the transfer over the line, with Forest set to demand a hefty sum to part with their star.

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