David Ornstein releases Anthony Elanga update after claims £55m deal is close
Newcastle’s Summer Boost: Elanga Deal Edges Closer Amid Transfer Frustrations
Just when it seemed like Newcastle United’s transfer window was headed for more disappointment, Thursday night delivered a potentially game-changing update that lifted the mood across Tyneside.
After suffering setbacks in their pursuit of top targets—losing Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to Chelsea, while watching Bryan Mbeumo and Marc Guehi edge closer to moves elsewhere—it’s fair to say Newcastle fans were growing restless. The early stages of the summer window brought more near-misses than breakthroughs, and expectations were beginning to waver.
However, according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, there’s now real reason for optimism. Newcastle are reportedly on the verge of securing a deal with Nottingham Forest for Swedish international Anthony Elanga, one of the Premier League’s most exciting young wingers.
Newcastle Raise Their Bid for Elanga
The Magpies had already tested Forest’s resolve with a £45 million offer last week, which was swiftly turned down. But according to both Hope and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the club has now returned with an improved bid worth £55 million, showing clear intent to get the deal done.
Adding to the credibility of these claims, David Ornstein of The Athletic—widely regarded as one of the most reliable voices in football journalism—has now offered his own insight into the developing story.
David Ornstein’s Elanga Update
In his latest report, Ornstein confirms that Newcastle’s bid exceeds £50 million, with additional performance-related bonuses potentially pushing the total value even higher. He notes that negotiations between the two clubs are well underway and that Newcastle are pushing hard to finalise the transfer in the coming days.
However, it’s not yet a done deal. Ornstein cautions that while talks are progressing, there are still details to be resolved on the player’s side, indicating that personal terms or other logistical issues may still need ironing out.
Interestingly, Ornstein also reveals a key detail that could impact the final structure of the transfer: when Elanga moved from Manchester United to Nottingham Forest for £15 million two years ago, the Red Devils included a 15% sell-on clause in the deal. This means a significant portion of Newcastle’s proposed fee could head to Old Trafford—something that both Forest and Newcastle are likely factoring into negotiations.
Newcastle’s Long-Standing Interest
This isn’t the first time Elanga has been on Newcastle’s radar. The club made a bold move for the Swedish winger on deadline day last August, submitting a bid that included a £30 million base fee, plus the inclusion of Miguel Almiron (valued at £5 million), and two future payments of £5 million each—making the total package worth £45 million. Forest rejected that proposal immediately.
The fact that Newcastle have now returned with an even more lucrative offer highlights just how highly they rate the 23-year-old. Despite the hefty price tag, this move is seen as a statement of intent from Eddie Howe and the recruitment team.
Is £50 Million Too Much?
While some fans may raise eyebrows at the fee—given that Elanga will become Newcastle’s third-most expensive signing behind only Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali—it’s worth considering the broader context.
In today’s inflated market, £50 million for a Premier League-proven winger in his prime development years is not unheard of. Elanga is not only versatile, capable of playing across the front line, but he’s also fast, dynamic, and technically sharp—all traits Newcastle have been crying out for in the wide areas.
He also has the advantage of being a familiar teammate to Isak at international level with Sweden, which could aid chemistry in the final third. In terms of direct goal involvement, Elanga actually outperformed both Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes last season, providing even more justification for the club’s determination to bring him to St James’ Park.
A Win-Win Deal?
For Nottingham Forest, while losing a player of Elanga’s calibre is a blow, the financial upside is huge. Not only would they be tripling their initial investment, but the funds would also help the club navigate Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), giving them the flexibility to reinforce other areas of their squad.
Meanwhile, for Newcastle, securing Elanga would not only fill a crucial need on the wing but also act as a major morale boost after missing out on multiple targets. It signals ambition, competitiveness, and a refusal to settle for second-best in the transfer market.