Newcastle United have agreed a £55 million deal with Nottingham Forest for Swedish winger Anthony Elanga, with sources indicating the transfer could be completed this week.
Elanga, 23, is set to become Newcastle’s first major signing of the summer, following their return to the UEFA Champions League after finishing fifth in the Premier League last season. Until now, the only addition to Eddie Howe’s squad had been the free signing of 18-year-old Spanish winger Antonio Cordero from Malaga.
Elanga enjoyed a breakout campaign at Forest under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, scoring six goals and registering 11 assists in the 2024–25 Premier League season. Those 11 assists were the third-highest in the league, behind only Mohamed Salah (18) and Josh Murphy (12).
The winger originally joined Nottingham Forest from Manchester United in 2023 for around £15 million, making the switch after rising through the ranks at Old Trafford from the age of 12 and going on to make 55 senior appearances.
Newcastle’s pursuit of Elanga reflects his growing stature in the league. His performance data, including his high percentile for goal-creating actions and shots on target, highlights both his creativity and clinical edge. He also ranks highly for progressive carries and crossing volume, with an average of 6.65 crosses per 90 minutes—well above Newcastle’s current wide players. By comparison, Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, and Anthony Gordon all average fewer than 4.85 crosses per 90 minutes.
Manager Eddie Howe is said to have tracked Elanga for over a year and sees him as an ideal addition to boost the club’s attacking depth ahead of a demanding European campaign. The Swede’s pace, directness, and versatility—able to play both wide and centrally—make him a strong fit for Howe’s plans.
While Elanga’s arrival strengthens Newcastle’s squad, it remains to be seen whether it signals a departure for any of their current wide players. However, the club has been firm in its stance that none of its key players will be sold this summer.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, were reluctant to sell Elanga but were ultimately swayed by Newcastle’s willingness to meet their asking price. The deal represents a £40 million profit on a player signed only two years ago and is poised to be a club-record sale.
Elanga had not agitated for a move, but the size of the offer made it too good for Forest to refuse. Former manager Steve Cooper played a key role in convincing him to join Forest over Everton in 2023, promising regular football and development.
Despite the loss of Elanga, Forest remain committed to strengthening ahead of their return to European competition for the first time since 1995–96. The club has already secured new contracts for key players such as Murillo, Chris Wood, Neco Williams, and Ola Aina, along with head coach Nuno.
Elanga had formed an effective attacking partnership with Callum Hudson-Odoi and contributed significantly to Chris Wood’s 20-goal season. With fellow winger Ramon Sosa also expected to depart for Palmeiras in Brazil, Forest may look to reinvest in wide areas. PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, who scored 11 goals en route to an Eredivisie title, remains a long-term target.
Forest are expected to take a measured approach to recruitment this summer as they look to build from a position of strength.