Why Enzo Maresca is a ‘strong admirer’ of Elliot Anderson with Chelsea’s January priority now known

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Thanks to Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, Enzo Maresca already has a very strong midfield at Chelsea.

However, it could get even stronger, as Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson continues to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.

If the Blues do want to sign the 23-year-old in 2026, he will not come cheap.

Last month, it was claimed that Forest have slapped a £120m price tag on Anderson, so Chelsea could have to pay a record fee to sign him.

• READ MORE: Chelsea could have to make decision fans will absolutely hate before they can sign Elliot Anderson

Enzo Maresca rates Elliot Anderson’s midfield versatility

According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea have made signing a midfielder in January their priority and have Anderson on their radar.

The outlet claims that Enzo Maresca is a “strong admirer” of the Englishman because of his versatility.

While Chelsea do have Caicedo and Fernandez, they may need to bring in someone who can cover them.

Romeo Lavia, Andrey Santos and Dario Essugo are the club’s other midfield options, but Lavia and Essugo have both had injury problems this season.

Romeo Lavia’s injury record could force Chelsea to sign a new midfielder in 2026. Who would you buy if Kobbie Mainoo isn’t available?

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton have both been mentioned 👀

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Anderson would be a very expensive back-up player, though, and is unlikely to settle for such a role.

Which midfield roles has Elliot Anderson played in?

This season, Anderson has played as a defensive midfielder and central midfielder. However, in the past, the England international has also been deployed as an attacking midfielder.

The above shows that Anderson is a very versatile player. It is easy to see why Maresca likes the Forest man.

Again, though, he may not fancy the challenge of having to compete against Caicedo and Fernandez for a starting spot.

Caicedo is one of the best midfielders in the world right now. No one can displace him at Chelsea.

As for Fernandez, like his teammate, he also cost over £100m and is one of Maresca’s favourites. There is no way the World Cup winner will be dropped for Anderson or anyone else for that matter. Anderson moving to Chelsea would be a surprise, especially in January.