Manchester City are hopeful of agreeing a deal for Elliot Anderson, talkSPORT understands.Anderson favours a move to the Etihad Stadium over Manchester United, who are looking elsewhere for midfield options.City are continuing to work on a deal for AndersonGettySources have told talkSPORT that City want a deal for the England international tied up before the World Cup, which begins on June 11.They have already held verbal talks with Forest but, at present, there is a gulf in valuation.Forest believe Anderson is worth as much as the £105million Arsenal paid West Ham United for Declan Rice in 2023.talkSPORT understands that City currently value Anderson at £80m.Anderson, who is in the England squad, has been the leading target for the Manchester clubs, who have both held talks with his camp.City are optimistic on persuading him to join, and are prepared to move even if Rodri signs a new contract.United have him as their top choice ahead of Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton, both of whom are also under consideration.However, Newcastle United star Tonali’s fee and wage are viewed as less value for money.Sources say Crystal Palace man Wharton is deemed similar to Kobbie Mainoo in profile, so other options may be looked at ahead of him.United’s plan is to add two senior midfielders this summer, and City will sign at least one.City are keen to get a deal over the line before the World CupGettyHowever, they could also go for a second if Rodri is sold, and now that Bernardo Silva is leaving.There is overlap between the two Manchester clubs in targets as City also appreciate Tonali.Newcastle could be open to a sale for the Italian, but for a fee of £100m or more.City and United have also scouted Atalanta’s Ederson in the past, but the Brazilian midfielder is close to joining Atletico Madrid this summer having already agreed terms.United have considered Wolves’ Joao Gomes, Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and Al-Hilal’s Ruben Neves in previous windows, too.West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, with some reports suggesting Bruno Fernandes has recommended signing him.Anderson has been named in the England squad for the World CupGettyForest’s Anderson stanceCity and United want to try for Anderson first before assessing other midfielders in the market. They hope he will pick his favoured destination before the World Cup begins since a strong performance for England could only raise his value further.talkSPORT understands Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis will handle an Anderson exit personally as global head of football Edu has been on gardening leave since January.Reports on the fee required have ranged wildly from £65m to £120m, but talkSPORT understands neither City or United have been quoted a price yet.Anderson coy on Forest futureWhen asked about his future while on England duty in the March international break, Anderson remained tight-lipped.He said: “Obviously we’ve got the World Cup this summer so all my eyes are on that.“Playing for England, I’ve got the badge on now so that’s all I’m thinking about at the moment.Anderson made 50 appearances for Forest this season, scoring four goalsAFPAsked if he felt confident he would be in the team at the start of the tournament, Anderson replied: “I want it that way. But I’ve got a season left with Forest.“I’ve got plenty of games and there’s plenty of time until then. I’ve got to keep my standards high and make sure that happens.”