Liverpool Eye Midfield Reinforcement as Anderson Interest Grows
Liverpool’s recruitment picture has shifted again as the Premier League champions weigh up their next significant move in midfield. Despite £450m worth of summer arrivals, the central unit was left untouched and that omission has come into sharper focus as injuries continue to stretch Arne Slot’s options.
Rising Concerns in Central Areas
Richard Hughes sanctioned loans for Harvey Elliott and James McConnell while Tyler Morton departed for Lyon permanently. That has left a demanding workload for Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo.
All but Szoboszlai have missed game time already, and the Hungarian’s versatility has come at a cost. He has been shifted into right-back roles, deeper midfield work and various tactical adjustments, which has disrupted his rhythm. Slot’s system relies heavily on control in the middle third and the current group, talented though they are, has lacked consistent availability.
Interest in Elliot Anderson
The Times report suggests Liverpool could re-enter the market soon, highlighting Elliot Anderson as a possible solution. Anderson’s rise since leaving Newcastle for Nottingham Forest in a £35m deal has been dramatic. Now 23, he has played his way into England contention under Thomas Tuchel and is widely expected to feature at the World Cup.
“Club view 23-year-old as possible replacement for Casemiro but could face competition, with Liverpool and Newcastle also linked with Nottingham Forest midfielder,” the report states, as Manchester United consider life after Casemiro’s expensive contract.
After paying £35m for Anderson in 2024, Forest now value him at around £100m.
Anderson’s Profile and Why Liverpool Like Him
Anderson has been ever present for Forest this season under Sean Dyche, playing every Premier League minute and scoring in their recent meeting with Leeds United. Operating predominantly as a defensive midfielder, he has impressed with ball carrying, recoveries and physical dominance.
His blend of energy, aggression and tactical discipline fits neatly with what Slot usually looks for in that part of the pitch. With Mac Allister yet to hit his full stride this campaign and Gravenberch still adjusting to the tempo of top level English football, Anderson’s profile has become increasingly appealing.
Liverpool rarely enter bidding wars for players valued near £100m, yet the club have not shied away from major midfield investments in past seasons when the need has been pronounced. The significant outlay on other areas last summer means the next addition must be precise and transformative rather than convenient.
If the champions choose to pursue Anderson, the competition will be fierce, but the strategic rationale is clear. A midfielder who can cover ground, protect transitions and grow into a key figure over multiple seasons is exactly the type of target Hughes and Slot typically prioritise.
Our View, Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool supporters will read this latest link with mixed excitement and hesitation. The idea of adding a powerful, homegrown midfielder who has broken into the England scene is naturally appealing, especially when the squad has shown moments of fatigue in the centre. Anderson looks built for the Premier League and his consistency under Dyche shows a maturity that would translate well at Anfield.
The concern is the price. £100m is a serious commitment, and fans will wonder whether Liverpool should target a more established Champions League profile at that level. Even so, Slot’s title winning system depends on athleticism, counter press strength and reliable defensive structure. Anderson offers all of that with room to grow.
Supporters will also be curious about how this affects players like Jones and Gravenberch. Competition is essential, but the midfield already feels crowded when everyone is fit. A potential arrival could accelerate decisions on long term squad roles.
Overall, the rumour feels credible and logical. Whether Liverpool go as high as £100m is another matter, but Anderson ticks many of the boxes Liverpool value and would bring dynamism the midfield has lacked at times this season.
