Nottingham Forest have wasted little time planning for life after Elliot Anderson, with Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic emerging as one of their leading transfer targets following the club’s record-breaking sale of the England international.
Forest are set to receive a huge financial boost after agreeing to sell Anderson to Manchester City in a deal worth up to £130 million, giving the club significant spending power ahead of the new Premier League season. One of the immediate priorities is replacing the influential midfielder, and Kovacic has now moved onto Forest’s shortlist.
According to SportsBoom, Forest are among the clubs monitoring the experienced Croatia international, with Aston Villa also keeping a close watch on his situation at the Etihad Stadium. Manchester City are understood to be willing to listen to offers if the right proposal arrives during the summer transfer window.
Kovacic’s future has become increasingly uncertain after a frustrating campaign disrupted by injuries. The 32-year-old made just six Premier League appearances last season, the lowest league tally of his professional career, as fitness problems and increased competition for places limited his opportunities. Despite those setbacks, he recovered in time to earn selection for Croatia’s World Cup squad, underlining his continued pedigree at the highest level.
The midfielder has just one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, a situation that has prompted speculation over a possible departure. With Elliot Anderson arriving to strengthen City’s midfield and further changes expected under incoming manager Enzo Maresca, several established players could be moved on before the new season begins.
Forest believe Kovacic’s experience could prove invaluable as they prepare for another Premier League campaign. The former Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter Milan midfielder has won multiple league titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies and numerous domestic honours during an illustrious career spanning more than a decade.
His leadership and ability to control matches from midfield are qualities Forest are keen to add as they look to reinvest the proceeds from Anderson’s departure. The club are understood to be targeting players capable of making an immediate impact rather than embarking solely on long-term projects.
Aston Villa’s interest means Forest could face competition if Kovacic becomes available. Villa are also seeking experienced midfield reinforcements and can offer European football, potentially strengthening their position should negotiations develop.
Manchester City are not actively pushing Kovacic towards the exit, but the club recognise that allowing the Croatian to leave this summer would avoid the risk of losing him for nothing when his contract expires next year. Any sale would also help balance the midfield following Anderson’s arrival and other expected changes within the squad.
For Forest, the coming weeks could define how they reinvest one of the biggest transfer fees in British football history. While replacing a player of Anderson’s quality will not be straightforward, Kovacic’s experience, winning mentality and proven Premier League pedigree make him an attractive candidate to lead the next chapter at the City Ground.
