Exclusive: Nottingham Forest makes a shocking decision on Anthony Elanga amid ‘major interest’ from Newcastle
Nottingham Forest Stars Drawing Transfer Interest, but Club Holds Firm on Valuations
Nottingham Forest find themselves in a familiar position heading into the summer transfer window: possessing a roster brimming with talented players who are increasingly attracting attention from rival clubs across Europe. The latest transfer speculation surrounds winger Anthony Elanga, with reports suggesting Newcastle United are again showing strong interest in the Swedish international.
Elanga, who impressed during the 2024–25 campaign with his pace and direct attacking play, has been on Newcastle’s radar since last summer. While their interest has reportedly reignited, the Magpies are far from the only club eyeing Forest’s rising stars. Head coach Nuno Espírito Santo also faces growing uncertainty around the futures of key players such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Hudson-Odoi is believed to be on the wishlist of Serie A side Napoli, while Gibbs-White is at the centre of a more complex transfer saga. Manchester City were the first Premier League giant to express admiration for the attacking midfielder, but now Chelsea have entered the frame, monitoring the situation closely as speculation grows.
Despite the mounting rumours, Nottingham Forest remain in a position of strength when it comes to their prized assets. To gain a clearer perspective on the club’s stance, Nottingham Forest News spoke exclusively with respected transfer insider Graeme Bailey, who shared insights into the club’s plans for the window.
Forest Unlikely to Sell Elanga or Other Key Players – But Only the Right Offer Could Change That
According to Bailey, Forest are not under pressure to sell any of their top players, including Elanga, Gibbs-White, and Hudson-Odoi. While the club would undoubtedly benefit financially from a significant sale, it is not a necessity, especially considering the club’s current position regarding Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
“Nottingham Forest are a club on the rise,” Bailey explained. “They’ve built a really strong squad and have no plans to offload multiple star players this summer. Whether it’s Murillo, Gibbs-White, or Elanga – they’re all on the radar of top clubs, but Forest are in no rush to sell and certainly don’t need to.”
He went on to note the level of interest in Elanga in particular: “Newcastle United have been long-term admirers of Elanga. They made an approach for him previously and remain keen. Still, Forest will only consider parting ways with a player like Elanga if the financial offer is truly compelling. No cut-price deals will be done at the City Ground.”
This firm approach is likely to reassure supporters, who have seen the club steadily build under the stewardship of owner Evangelos Marinakis. While other Premier League sides face PSR-related challenges, Forest’s careful financial management has left them in an enviable position this summer.
Marinakis Earns Praise for Strategic Oversight and Transfer Planning
Credit is due to Marinakis for putting Forest in such a strong financial and sporting position. With a projected £85 million PSR buffer heading into the summer and a net spend of just £16 million during the 2024–25 season, the club’s leadership has achieved a rare balance: staying competitive on the pitch while maintaining fiscal discipline.
This forward-thinking strategy is further demonstrated by Forest’s imminent signings from Botafogo. The club is reportedly finalising deals for three highly rated Brazilian prospects – Igor Jesus, Jair Cunha, and Cuiabano – at a combined cost of just £33.6 million. These acquisitions represent smart business and reinforce Forest’s commitment to building for the future while avoiding overspending.
Although it’s possible that one of the club’s star names could be lured away, any such departure will come only on Forest’s terms. The club is determined to avoid being bullied in the market and will demand top-tier valuations for any of their standout performers.
The Message is Clear: No Bargains at the City Ground
Premier League rivals and European clubs alike have been alerted – if they want to prise away any of Forest’s elite talents, they’ll need to pay a premium. Marinakis and Espírito Santo are not interested in weakening the squad unless a deal makes overwhelming financial and strategic sense.
As the summer transfer window gathers pace, Forest remain vigilant, prepared, and financially sound. With exciting signings on the horizon and their key players under contract, the message from the East Midlands is clear: Nottingham Forest will not be pushed around.