In the space of one month, two English midfielders have shattered the record for the most expensive British player of all time. Elliot Anderson’s £116m move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City was quickly eclipsed by Chelsea’s £117m signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Both are 23, both operate at a high level — and both are proof that English midfielders have become the most sought-after assets in football.
Anderson, who started seven of England’s eight World Cup matches as the Three Lions finished third, was an engine for club and country. Last season he led the Premier League in touches (3,300), duels won (297), possessions won (306) and fouls won (80). He also completed more passes than any other central midfielder (2,038) and delivered 376 line-breaking passes. His four goals, four assists and 54 chances created — including nine big chances — underline his two-way contribution.
“Two English midfielders, Anderson and Rogers, broke transfer records in one month, highlighting their value.”
Rogers, by contrast, is a versatile attacking midfielder who can play as a No 10 or on the left wing. He contributed 14 goals and 12 assists in 55 appearances across all competitions for Aston Villa last season. Across Europe’s top five leagues, he ranked second among midfielders for touches in the opposition box (181), while his 16 Premier League goal involvements placed him inside Europe’s top 10 in the position.
With traditional number nines becoming a dying breed, clubs are turning to midfielders for goal threat. Adam Wharton and Alex Scott are among the next generation attracting attention, fueling a market where English midfielders command record fees.
Chelsea’s record signing of Rogers has also put the future of forward Pedro Neto under scrutiny. The Blues have issued a stance on Neto after the deal, with the forward linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
