Anthony Elanga Newcastle United transfer twist as Nottingham Forest ‘agree’ £18.75m double deal
Newcastle United Rekindle Interest in Anthony Elanga as Forest Stand Firm on Valuation
Newcastle United have once again turned their attention to Anthony Elanga, reigniting long-standing interest in the Nottingham Forest winger as they continue to explore options to strengthen their attacking lineup this summer.
The 23-year-old Sweden international enjoyed an impressive debut campaign at the City Ground last season, contributing six goals and 11 assists in the Premier League. His dynamic performances and pace on the flanks caught the eye of several clubs, with Newcastle among the most persistent admirers.
The Magpies had previously engaged in talks with Forest regarding Elanga last summer, shortly after his move from Manchester United, but negotiations failed to result in a transfer. Still, their interest never fully faded. This summer, Newcastle have made a habit of revisiting previous transfer pursuits, with deals for the likes of goalkeeper James Trafford and forward Joao Pedro also back on the agenda.
In the case of Joao Pedro, Newcastle originally pulled out of a deal back in 2022 after sealing the high-profile signing of Alexander Isak. Meanwhile, a move for Trafford collapsed last year after the club failed to reach an agreement with Burnley. However, the Tyneside outfit is now pushing to bring both players to St James’ Park as part of a broader recruitment strategy that prioritizes known targets.
Now, Anthony Elanga has re-emerged as a top transfer priority for head coach Eddie Howe, who is keen to add a high-quality right winger to his squad. Newcastle formally opened talks at the beginning of June, and have since submitted an initial bid of £45 million for the former Manchester United academy graduate.
However, The Athletic reports that Nottingham Forest have rejected the offer outright, holding firm on their valuation of £60 million—a significant increase from the £15 million they paid to sign Elanga just a year ago. Forest are currently adamant that the winger is not for sale, but circumstances could change as the window progresses.
With the end of June fast approaching and clubs preparing for the return to pre-season training, activity in the transfer market is beginning to intensify. Newcastle remain in active negotiations for James Trafford, while optimism remains that they can strike a deal with Brighton & Hove Albion for Joao Pedro—although Chelsea’s interest in the Brazilian forward could complicate that pursuit.
As for Elanga, his situation at Nottingham Forest could shift in the coming weeks, especially in light of the club’s ongoing transfer activity. Reports from ESPN suggest that Forest are close to finalizing a £18.75 million double deal with Juventus for wingers Timothy Weah and Samuel Mbangula.
Both players are seen as potential reinforcements in wide areas. Weah, a 25-year-old U.S. international, is predominantly a right winger but can also operate in deeper roles. He tallied six goals and five assists in 43 appearances for Juventus last season and is currently participating in the FIFA Club World Cup. Meanwhile, Mbangula, 21, is a versatile forward who plays mainly on the left wing. Although he was limited to 11 starts for Juve in the 2024/25 season, he still managed four goals and five assists.
Should those deals go through, the arrivals could potentially jeopardize Elanga’s starting role, making a transfer more feasible—though Nottingham Forest continue to demonstrate they are not easily persuaded in the market.
Fueling speculation even further is Elanga’s rapport with several Newcastle players. He shares the Swedish national team dressing room with Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth, and is known to be close friends with striker William Osula. Over the past week, Elanga has also interacted with Anthony Gordon and Sven Botman on social media—gestures that have only added to the buzz surrounding a possible switch to the North East.
Last summer, following Newcastle’s initial interest, Elanga openly acknowledged conversations with Isak about a potential move to St James’ Park.
“Isak talked to me about [Newcastle’s interest],” Elanga said at the time. “We have a good relationship and good chemistry when we play together. But I said the same to him as I say to you—I have a contract with Nottingham. The environment here is good, and the club has a rich history, even if the European Cups came before I was born. I’m happy here and want to focus on having a good season. If big clubs show interest, it means I’m doing something right. But we’ll see what happens.”
Elanga’s comments, combined with Newcastle’s renewed approach and Forest’s evolving squad dynamics, suggest that while a deal may be difficult, it is far from impossible. As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on whether Newcastle can meet Forest’s demands—or if Elanga will remain at the City Ground for another season.