Manchester City have wrapped up the acquisition of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, with the England international putting pen to paper on a five-year contract.
City and Forest settled on a fee of £116 million ($155.18 million) for Anderson during the FIFA World Cup. City ensured the announcement remained understated as they sought to avoid disrupting England's campaign in North America.
Anderson is currently enjoying a post-World Cup break before linking up with his new teammates, but City have confirmed the transfer has been completed as anticipated, with the midfielder tied down until 2031, as per the Manchester Evening News.
"City are one of the biggest clubs in the world and the squad they have is amazing - so strong in every position. As soon as I knew they wanted me, I was absolutely determined to make this move happen," Anderson said upon signing. "As a footballer, you want to test yourself at the highest level. Being at City means I have that opportunity.
"From the outside looking in, City are a Club that treats its players well and provides the perfect environment to excel. The success they have had and the way they have played the game in the last 10 to 15 years has been extraordinary. It's a privilege to be given the chance to be part of that.
"As soon as I arrive in Manchester after a break, I will be doing everything I can to establish myself in the City team. It's a club built to win trophies and compete at the very top of the game. That is exciting for any footballer. I am so happy to have been given this opportunity, and I am determined to repay the faith City have shown in me."
Director of Football Hugo Viana has been struck by the ambition Anderson has displayed as he's emerged as one of the Premier League's finest midfielders, noting that there is still room for further growth.
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"Elliot is one of the outstanding young midfield talents in world football right now," he said. "He offers energy, outstanding work rate and an exceptional range of passing. His improvement in recent years has been really impressive and underlines his desire to be the best player he can be.
"At just 23, there is plenty of opportunity for development over the coming years and we feel he can become a complete midfielder. Manchester City is the best place for him to develop his game and keep improving, we are glad that he sees things the same way as we do.
"I look forward to seeing Elliot working with us ahead of the new season. I'm sure every City fan is excited to see what he can do."
Source: Alloutsoccer.com
