Exclusive: Nottingham Forest Target Tyler Morton as Elliot Anderson Exit Looms

Nottingham Forest have identified Tyler Morton as a potential replacement for Elliot Anderson as they fear the England midfielder will be lured away from the City Ground this summer, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Previously of Liverpool, Morton joined Lyon in a deal potentially worth up to £13m during last summer’s transfer window. 

After excelling for the French outfit, making 18 appearances so far both in Ligue 1 and Europe, the 23-year-old is now attracting attention from a host of leading clubs back in England. 

And Forest are ready to place themselves at the front of the queue for Morton’s signature as the likes of Manchester United and Newcastle circle around Anderson.

After forcing his way into Thomas Tuchel’s squad following a series of commanding performances last term, Anderson is expected to be the subject of some big money offers ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico.

As SportsBoom exclusively revealed earlier this term, United view Anderson as an ideal replacement for the ageing Casemiro and, despite their chequered form under boss Ruben Amorim, still possess the financial resources to test Forest’s resolve. 

AMBITIONS

Anderson started his career with The Magpies before heading to the east Midlands and, with their hierarchy recently outlining ambitions to be crowned champions by 2031, the prospect of a return to the North-East could also appeal as he looks to cash-in on his stellar recent progress.

However, sources with knowledge of both Forest and Old Trafford believe the latter is currently Anderson’s preferred destination if it is decided a switch would be beneficial. 

Although Evangelos Marinakis, the Forest owner, is a notoriously tough negotiator, the Greek is also a realist and has instructed the club’s recruitment department to begin assessing the market for Anderson’s successor.

Morton, who made 14 senior appearances for The Reds before heading to the Parque Olympique, is one of those they are monitoring closely. 

Despite earning a reprieve from relegation following a series of financial issues, Lyon are aware that any further mis-steps would leave their reputation in tatters - which, if they receive a significant return on their initial investment, could tempt them to sell Morton, who has also represented Hull City and Blackburn Rovers on loan.