Newcastle United have once again set their sights on Anthony Elanga, the 23-year-old Swedish international, as they look to bolster their attacking options this summer. Elanga, who has been instrumental for Nottingham Forest, contributing six goals and 11 assists in 38 Premier League appearances this season, is a prime target for the Magpies. Forest’s impressive seventh-place finish, which secured them a spot in the Europa Conference League, has only heightened interest in the talented winger.
Anthony Elanga said: “What a player! And an even better person [smiling face with smiling eyes and one tear emoji and red love heart emoji].”
Elanga’s future remains uncertain, with Newcastle reportedly prepared to offer over £50 million to initiate negotiations, although Forest is said to be holding out for around £60 million. This isn’t the first time Newcastle have pursued Elanga; a previous attempt last summer, valued at approximately £35 million, fell through at the last minute. Elanga’s close bond with teammate Toffolo, who was recently released by Forest, has added another layer of intrigue to the situation.
Newcastle’s interest in Elanga is part of a broader strategy to secure young, promising talents who can thrive under manager Eddie Howe. Elanga’s relationship with fellow Swede Alexander Isak is believed to be a factor in Newcastle’s pursuit. In addition to Elanga, Newcastle have also identified Brighton’s Joao Pedro as a potential summer acquisition. The Brazilian forward, who joined Brighton from Watford in 2023 for a club-record £30 million, has impressed with 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances.
Howe has emphasized the importance of being active in the transfer market to maintain squad dynamics and competitiveness. Newcastle’s recruitment strategy aims to address the lack of significant signings over the past three transfer windows, which Howe acknowledges could eventually impact the team’s performance.
Eddie Howe said: “Difficult to say on numbers, but I do think it’s a window that we have to be active in and I’m sure we will be. We haven’t recruited strongly in three windows and I think eventually, that can catch up with you in the end if you continue not to change because change is an important part of the squad dynamic.”
As the summer transfer window approaches, Newcastle United’s ambitions to strengthen their squad are clear. The Magpies are keen to secure top talents like Elanga and Pedro, who fit their long-term vision and can contribute to the club’s future success.
