Manchester City target Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali

Manchester City are pursuing two midfielders for the summer: Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson and Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali. The interest was outlined by Simon Bajkowski in a Manchester Evening News Q&A. Mark Brus also noted City’s pursuit of Tonali in his Daily Briefing column. Elliot Anderson is identified as Manchester City’s primary summer target. The 22‑year‑old has been linked with a move to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. His signing would address the squad’s need for a proven midfielder. Sandro Tonali is listed as a separate target from Anderson. Newcastle have set a £100 million price tag on the Italian international. Arsenal and Manchester United are also reported to be competing for his signature. Manchester City’s midfield faces several uncertainties. Bernardo Silva will leave after the 2026‑27 season. Rodri, approaching 30, is recovering from a serious ACL injury. Mateo Kovacic missed the 2025‑26 campaign with an Achilles problem.

Manchester City’s midfield overhaul hinges on £116m Anderson signing

Tijjani Reijnders endured a trying debut season and it remains unclear if he is suited to the Premier League. Nico Gonzalez fell out of favour under Pep Guardiola during the latter stages of last season. Nico O’Reilly may evolve into a regular midfield role. Josko Gvardiol and Ait‑Nouri are expected to contest the left‑back position, potentially freeing space for O’Reilly. If Manchester City secure both Anderson and Tonali, the midfield would be significantly reinforced. Hugo Viana highlighted that adding two quality midfielders would erase the current doubts surrounding the squad’s engine room. The club’s ability to complete both deals remains uncertain, but strengthening the midfield is identified as a priority for the upcoming season.