Rio Ferdinand Urges Manchester United to Prioritise ‘wonderful’ £80m midfielder Over Guimarães and Tonali

Rio Ferdinand has encouraged Manchester United to prioritise a move for Elliot Anderson over other high-profile midfield targets this summer, as the club continues planning a rebuild in the middle of the pitch.

United are expected to enter the transfer market for a central midfielder ahead of next season, with several names already under consideration. Among them are Newcastle United duo Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali, alongside Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, who was previously linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has also emerged as a serious target. Reports suggest he is valued at around £80 million, with both Manchester United and Manchester City monitoring his progress after an impressive rise in form.

Ferdinand believes Anderson offers the right profile for what United currently need in midfield. Speaking in analysis of the club’s options, he highlighted the player’s physical output, mobility and consistency as key reasons for his preference.

“Elliot Anderson, he seems to have jumped to the front of the queue. I think he’s a wonderful player,” Ferdinand said.

“I think Elliot Anderson is the right type not only of player but character, I think he’d be a good addition to the squad.”

Ferdinand contrasted Anderson with other midfield names being linked to United, including Tonali and Guimarães, both of whom are regarded as established international players. He also referenced Baleba, whose early-season form had previously generated strong transfer interest before a quieter spell in recent months.

“Tonali is a big talent that everyone is talking about, Guimaraes is another big talent that everyone is talking about, but I just think the type of midfielder United need is somebody who is a bit more all-action, who can cover ground, who is dynamic, who is robust, strong, who can drive a team,” he said.

Ferdinand’s comments reflect ongoing debate around United’s midfield rebuild, with the club expected to refresh the squad following another transitional season. The focus has shifted toward profiles capable of combining energy with tactical discipline, particularly in games where control in midfield has been inconsistent.

Anderson’s development at Nottingham Forest has placed him firmly on the radar of top Premier League clubs. His performances have been noted for work rate, defensive contribution and ability to progress play under pressure, qualities that align with United’s reported recruitment direction.

Guimarães remains a long-standing target for several elite clubs, with Newcastle United previously rejecting the idea of a summer departure. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has consistently dismissed speculation around the Brazilian midfielder’s future, describing transfer links as inaccurate and disruptive.

“I don’t even know how to respond to that. I don’t even think I should because it’s a waste of my energy,” Howe said earlier in the season when addressing speculation around Guimarães.

“For me it’s a nonsense story. To say our captain is in discussions with another club is totally disrespectful to Bruno more than anything else. He is totally committed here.”

United’s midfield planning comes alongside wider squad considerations, with the club expected to make adjustments across multiple positions during the transfer window. The balance between experience and development remains central to decision-making as they prepare for a return to European competition.

Anderson’s reported valuation of £80 million places him in a similar price bracket to several other Premier League midfielders under consideration, while Tonali and Guimarães are expected to command significant fees due to their contracts and importance to their current clubs.

Baleba’s situation at Brighton remains closely monitored, although his valuation has fluctuated depending on form and contract position. United are understood to be assessing multiple options before making a final decision on their primary midfield target.

Ferdinand’s preference for Anderson adds another layer to United’s internal discussions, particularly given the emphasis on energy, athleticism and adaptability in the current squad-building approach.

United’s recruitment team are expected to continue evaluating profiles that fit both immediate tactical needs and long-term squad development, with midfield identified as one of the key areas requiring reinforcement ahead of the new season.