Elliot Anderson has been linked with Manchester United ahead of Nottingham Forest’s clash with Sunderland

Nottingham Forest head into their meeting with Sunderland amid fresh transfer noise, with Elliot Anderson reportedly emerging as a target for Manchester United ahead of the summer window.

According to a report from The Telegraph, Manchester United are weighing up a move for the 23-year-old midfielder as they plan for life after Casemiro. Real Madrid and France midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni is also said to be under consideration by the Old Trafford club. Sunderland face Nottingham Forest in the Premier League at the Stadium of Light on Friday evening and could move to seventh temporarily with a win.

The timing is far from ideal for Forest. Anderson has developed into a key figure at the City Ground, and any uncertainty surrounding his future represents an unwelcome distraction ahead of facing Sunderland and the club’s ongoing relegation battle. The same report indicates that Forest would demand a significant fee for the England international.

Elsewhere, separate reporting suggests Harry Wilson, who has been loosely linked with Sunderland, is expected to join Aston Villa on a free transfer this summer when his Fulham contract expires. The Wales international is understood to be keen on the prospect of European football, while Villa are prepared to offer improved terms on his current deal at Craven Cottage.

The Villans’ interest in Harry Wilson is not new, with reports suggesting the attacking midfielder has been on their radar since January. Unai Emery is keen to strengthen his attacking options ahead of next season and is said to view Wilson as a strong stylistic fit for his system.

The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.

With his Fulham contract due to expire in June, the 29-year-old is set to become a free agent and has yet to agree fresh terms. That situation has attracted interest from elsewhere, but Aston Villa are reportedly well placed, particularly given the potential of European football at Villa Park.

According to reports, Wilson is expected to wait until the end of the season before making a final decision. However, Villa securing UEFA Champions League qualification could prove decisive. Financially, they are also believed to be prepared to offer a deal worth around £100,000-a-week, effectively doubling his current salary.

Your next Sunderland read: 'An absolute disgrace' – Sunderland backlash grows as loyal fans priced out and blocked from seat changes