Maresca targets 23-year-old as first Man City signing after Guardiola's exit

Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson is reportedly set to be the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era at Manchester City.

City are in pole position to land the 23-year-old England international, despite strong interest from arch-rivals Manchester United. A fee in excess of £70 million has been widely discussed, with insiders claiming it is almost considered a 'done deal.'

According to sources, the player is keen on the move, and Maresca is fully on board.

Maresca's 4-2-3-1 often evolves into a 3-2-2-3 in possession, placing significant responsibility on the double pivot. Those midfielders are required to receive under pressure, press aggressively, dictate tempo, and cover large areas of the pitch.

Anderson ticks every box. Comfortable dropping deep to initiate build-up play, he also possesses the athleticism and intensity to drive forward and break lines.

Should the uncertainty around Rodri’s long-term fitness continue, Anderson has the profile to become a foundational piece of Maresca’s next-generation City side.

Guardiola is expected to announce his departure after City's final game of the season, at home to Aston Villa.

The Spaniard has managed the Etihad Club for 10 years, winning 20 trophies in the process, and will now vacate the dugout for former assistant Maresca.