Newcastle United are pushing hard to sign Anthony Elanga. They have submitted a significantly improved offer for the Nottingham Forest winger.
The Magpies’ latest bid is understood to be in the region of £55 million. This follows the rejection of an initial £45 million approach last week, as reported by Sky Sports.
The Magpies’ Second Offer
Newcastle’s determination to land Anthony Elanga is evident in their swift return with a second, more substantial bid. The improved £55 million offer signals a clear intent from the Tyneside club to secure the services of the highly-rated Sweden international. Nevertheless, Nottingham Forest are holding firm on their £60 million valuation and, according to Sky Sports, have no desire to sell one of their prized assets. The situation remains fluid, with talks between the two clubs reportedly continuing as they look to find a compromise.
This persistent approach from Newcastle highlights a long-standing interest in the player. The Magpies had a substantial offer, believed to be around £50 million, turned down on deadline day last summer. Therefore, this renewed effort underscores how highly manager Eddie Howe rates the winger and sees him as a crucial addition to his squad’s attacking firepower. The coming days will be critical in determining whether a deal can be struck or if Newcastle will be forced to look elsewhere.
Adding to the narrative, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano provided a positive update for the St James’ Park faithful. In a recent tweet, he stated: “More on Newcastle and Anthony Elanga exclusive story. The club is optimistic about securing the final green light from Nottingham Forest following the £55m bid revealed tonight. Personal terms are also close to being agreed as #NUFC want to get it done as soon as possible.” This suggests that while the clubs are still negotiating the final fee, the player’s side is keen on the move, a significant factor that could help push the transfer over the line.
Elanga’s Allure for Newcastle
Anthony Elanga’s potential move to Newcastle (16.95) is driven by his impressive performances and a skill set that aligns perfectly with Eddie Howe’s tactical philosophy. The 23-year-old is blessed with blistering pace and a remarkable ability to use both feet. This makes him a versatile and unpredictable threat in the final third. Last season, he was a standout player for a Nottingham Forest side that secured a surprise qualification for the UEFA Conference League. He contributed significantly with goals and assists. Consequently, his direct running and willingness to take on defenders in one-on-one situations are attributes that would complement Newcastle’s game.
In Howe’s system, wingers are tasked with maintaining width, pressing aggressively without the ball. They need to contribute to both creating and scoring goals. Elanga’s work rate and defensive contributions would be just as valuable as his offensive output. He is seen as a player who provides quality and complements the existing talent. Furthermore, his interest in the Newcastle project suggests he is ready for a new challenge and the opportunity to play a key role in a team with aspirations of competing at the highest level.
Forest’s Stance and the Wider Context
Nottingham Forest’s reluctance to part with Elanga is understandable. Having only signed him from Manchester United in the summer of 2023 for a fee of around £15 million, his value has since skyrocketed. This reflects his rapid development at the City Ground. His departure would leave a significant void in their attacking lineup as they prepare for a European campaign. However, the financial realities of the Premier League often dictate transfer policy. A substantial offer could prove difficult to refuse, especially in light of the league’s profitability and sustainability rules.
The potential sale of Elanga would represent a significant profit for Forest, which could be reinvested into the squad. For Newcastle, the successful acquisition of Elanga would be a major statement of intent and could influence the odds in online sports betting markets for the upcoming Premier League season. A player of his calibre could be seen as the difference-maker in tight matches. He could be a key component in their quest for domestic and European success.
Exploring Alternative Options
While Newcastle appear focused on securing Elanga, they are also prudently exploring other avenues. This contingency planning is crucial in the volatile summer transfer window. Among the names linked with a move to St James’ Park are PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, a dynamic and skilful winger who has attracted interest from several top European clubs.
Another potential target is Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi. The German international’s searing pace and directness would offer a similar threat to Elanga. Furthermore, West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus is also reportedly on Newcastle’s radar. The Ghanaian international has been a revelation in the Premier League. His ability to play in multiple attacking roles makes him an attractive proposition for any top side. These alternatives demonstrate Newcastle’s thorough approach to recruitment as they aim to bolster their attacking options for the challenges that lie ahead.
