Newcastle United told bargain £20m fee that would save millions after Anthony Elanga snub

Newcastle United Urged to Prioritise Johan Bakayoko Deal as Nottingham Forest Dig in Over Elanga

 

Newcastle United have been encouraged to accelerate their pursuit of Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko, with sources in the Netherlands suggesting this summer represents the perfect opportunity to secure his signature—especially as talks with Nottingham Forest over Anthony Elanga continue to hit roadblocks.

 

The talented PSV Eindhoven winger, who was heavily scouted by Newcastle in previous transfer windows, has now entered the final 12 months of his contract, making him a viable target for a significantly reduced fee. Chronicle Live understands that the Magpies are monitoring the situation closely, with £20 million floated in agent circles as a realistic price tag—far less than the £45 million Forest are demanding for Elanga.

 

Newcastle Reignite Longstanding Interest in Bakayoko

 

While Bakayoko played a role in PSV’s Eredivisie title-winning campaign last season, many observers feel the 21-year-old failed to consistently hit top form. His final output in the Dutch top-flight included nine goals and a single assist, modest numbers for a player often billed as one of Belgium’s most promising young attackers. Nevertheless, his skill, pace, and potential to develop further remain highly attractive to clubs across Europe.

 

Sources close to the player suggest that this could be the ideal moment to make a move, with PSV open to cashing in rather than risking losing him for nothing next year. Newcastle, whose recruitment team have kept tabs on Bakayoko for over a year, are being advised to act swiftly to avoid a potential bidding war.

 

Interest Growing Across Europe

 

Newcastle are not alone in their admiration. Bournemouth have made inquiries, while top European outfits such as Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig, and Borussia Dortmund have also shown interest. With such a growing list of suitors, the Magpies may need to move quickly if they want to bring the Belgian to St James’ Park.

 

Despite the competition, Bakayoko is believed to be well within Newcastle’s wage structure, which could simplify negotiations on personal terms if a fee is agreed. Given that Forest rejected a £45 million offer for Elanga without even entertaining a counter-proposal, Bakayoko represents a far more cost-effective option—potentially saving the club millions while still securing a high-upside attacking talent.

 

Player Ambitions Align With Newcastle’s Project

 

Bakayoko has never been shy about outlining his ambitions. Speaking about his future during the last campaign, the young winger made it clear that he only wants to join clubs with genuine aspirations to win silverware.

 

> “If I were to leave Eindhoven, it would only be to a club that plays for the prizes just like PSV,” Bakayoko said.

“And win the Champions League. I have the qualities for that. I’m ready for the top.”

 

 

 

That mindset could align perfectly with Eddie Howe’s vision at Newcastle, as the Magpies look to build a squad capable of competing in Europe and challenging for domestic trophies in the coming years. While last season proved to be a rollercoaster of injuries and inconsistency, the long-term ambition at St James’ Park remains focused on breaking into the Premier League’s elite.

 

Why Bakayoko Makes Sense Over Elanga

 

With Nottingham Forest proving difficult to negotiate with over Elanga—firmly holding out for a fee Newcastle are unwilling to meet—the Magpies may now see Bakayoko as a logical and shrewd alternative. Not only is the Belgian more affordable, but at just 21 years old, he also offers a long-term investment with resale potential if developed properly.

 

Furthermore, Bakayoko’s profile—pacey, versatile, with strong one-on-one dribbling—fits seamlessly into Newcastle’s attacking strategy, particularly if the club is looking to rotate wide forwards in support of a central striker like Alexander Isak.

 

Time to Strike

 

With pre-season preparations looming, Newcastle cannot afford to drag their heels. A move for Bakayoko would represent both value and ambition—key pillars of the club’s modern recruitment philosophy. If they delay too long, they risk losing out to one of the many continental giants circling the player.

 

As other clubs line up for his signature, the ball is in Newcastle’s court to make a decisive move and potentially land one of Europe’s most exciting young wingers at a bargain price.