Forest Accept £55m Bid for Star Winger Elanga
Newcastle United have reached a £55 million agreement with Nottingham Forest for Swedish winger Anthony Elanga, with sources indicating the deal could be finalized this week.
Strategic Signing for Champions League Return
The 23-year-old winger enjoyed a breakout 2024-25 Premier League season under Nuno Espirito Santo, contributing 6 goals and 11 assists. His acquisition represents Newcastle's first major summer signing as they prepare for Champions League football following their fifth-place Premier League finish.
Elanga's Rising Stock
Forest initially signed Elanga from Manchester United in 2023 for £15 million, where he had progressed through the academy system since age 12, making 55 senior appearances before his City Ground move.
Why Elanga Fits Newcastle's Needs
Statistical analysis reveals why Newcastle are investing heavily in the Swedish international:
- Creative Threat: Ranks in the 80th percentile for goal-creating actions among Premier League wingers
- Clinical Finishing: Exceptional goals-per-shot ratio and shots-on-target percentage
- Crossing Prowess: Averages 6.65 crosses per 90 minutes - significantly higher than Newcastle's current wingers
- Direct Play: Excellent progressive carries statistics demonstrate his attacking intent
His versatility to play both wide and centrally makes him particularly valuable for Newcastle's European campaign.
Howe's Long-Term Target
Manager Eddie Howe has monitored Elanga for 12 months, viewing him as ideal competition for existing wingers Anthony Gordon, Jacob Murphy, and Harvey Barnes. The signing provides crucial depth for Champions League rotation.
Forest's Reluctant Sale
BBC Sport's Nick Mashiter reports:
Forest initially resisted selling their key attacker, but the £55 million offer - representing a £40 million profit on their 2023 investment - proved irresistible. Elanga was instrumental in Forest's seventh-place finish and European qualification, forming a productive partnership with Callum Hudson-Odoi that helped Chris Wood score 20 goals.
The club has already secured contract extensions for several key players including Murillo, Neco Williams, and manager Nuno Espirito Santo. With winger Ramon Sosa also departing, Forest may now pursue PSV's Johan Bakayoko as they prepare for their own European campaign.
