Liverpool to Move for Anderson as “Their Own Declan Rice” in 2026 Window
Liverpool have been encouraged to target Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson next year, with former striker Dean Saunders insisting the England international could become the Reds’ answer to Declan Rice.
Anderson, 23, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most composed and technically reliable midfielders over the past 12 months, starring under Thomas Tuchel and forcing his way into England’s 2026 World Cup plans. His rise has already drawn interest from Manchester United and Manchester City, but Saunders believes Liverpool must enter the race.
Speaking to AceOdds.com, Saunders said Anderson possesses the rare on-ball security that defines the world’s best midfielders.
“At youth level and even when he broke into the Premier League, he just never gave the ball away,” he said. “Now he’s doing it against the best players on the planet they can’t take it off him.”
Saunders praised Anderson’s ability to play across midfield roles, describing him as a versatile modern operator who can function as a No.6, No.8, or No.10.
“He’s like Declan Rice in that sense. He can do a bit of everything. His football IQ is outstanding he just needs to add more goals.”
Saunders highlighted the importance of a midfielder capable of dominating transitions and reading danger, referencing Ryan Gravenberch’s role in last season’s title win while stressing that Liverpool still lack a complete holding midfielder.
“Gravenberch did well, but he’s not at the same level,” he said. “In that role you need someone who sees problems before they happen the way Kante did at his peak. Anderson has that instinct. He’d be perfect for Liverpool.”
He added that Anderson’s awareness, positioning and reliability would immediately strengthen Arne Slot’s structure, especially when the team is exposed in attacking phases.
With Anderson expected to play a prominent role for England at the upcoming World Cup, Nottingham Forest may face intense pressure to keep him. His performances this season suggest he could command a fee similar to the division’s top midfielders, especially with several Premier League giants circling.
For Liverpool, who are expected to evolve their midfield once again next summer, a move for Anderson would represent long-term succession planning and, according to Saunders, a rare chance to secure a potential all-round leader at the heart of the team.
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