Newcastle now already prioritising their next top target after Elanga deal
Newcastle Submit New Bid for Elanga as Focus Shifts to Next Major Target
Newcastle United have reignited their pursuit of Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga with a renewed offer and are now setting their sights on bolstering their defensive ranks, marking an increasingly ambitious summer window under Eddie Howe.
Fresh Approach for Elanga Raises Optimism on Tyneside
After their initial bid for Anthony Elanga was rejected, the Magpies have returned with a significantly improved second offer, believed to be in the region of £55 million. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Newcastle are “increasingly optimistic” about striking a deal with Nottingham Forest for the electrifying Swedish international, who enjoyed a breakout season in the Premier League.
Elanga, 22, registered 6 goals and an impressive 11 assists in 2,501 minutes of league action last season, showcasing blistering pace and one-on-one ability that terrorized defences throughout the campaign. His potential addition to a Newcastle attack already boasting Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon could give Howe one of the most dynamic front threes in English football.
Elanga, Isak & Gordon – By the Numbers (2024/25 Premier League Season via FBref)
Player Minutes Goals Assists Successful Take-Ons
Elanga 2,501 6 11 25
Isak 2,756 23 6 42
Gordon 2,434 6 5 38
This trio promises explosive counter-attacking power, technical flair, and end product—key attributes that could help Newcastle not only maintain their top-four ambitions but also make a deeper push in European competitions next season.
Forest’s Loss Could Be Newcastle’s Gain
Nottingham Forest are fully aware of what they stand to lose should Elanga make the switch to St. James’ Park. The winger quickly became a fan favourite at the City Ground, earning plaudits for his pace, work ethic, and flair in the final third.
Following Elanga’s sensational solo strike against Manchester United in April, Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo had high praise for the young Swede:
> “He’s a special boy and he gives this team his speed. He does it by himself and we are delighted.”
Despite their reluctance to part ways, Forest could be swayed by Newcastle’s substantial second offer, especially as they look to navigate Financial Fair Play constraints and reinforce other areas of their squad.
Magpies Move for Scalvini as Next Priority
Even as discussions over Elanga continue, Newcastle’s recruitment team are already moving ahead with plans to strengthen their backline. According to The Times journalist Martin Hardy, the Tyneside club have now made Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini their next top target.
The 6’4″ Italian defender, who has been attracting attention across Europe with his composure and reading of the game, is valued at around £30 million—a fee Newcastle are reportedly willing to meet. At just 20 years old, Scalvini fits the club’s long-term strategy of signing high-ceiling talents who can be developed into elite-level players under Howe’s guidance.
Scalvini would join Elanga and goalkeeper James Trafford—recently acquired from Manchester City—as part of a strong trio of early summer additions. After initial fears of a quiet transfer window due to financial balancing and Profit & Sustainability Rules, Newcastle appear to be accelerating their activity.
A Statement Summer in the Making?
With ambitions to stay among England’s elite and to reassert themselves in Europe, Newcastle are wasting no time in addressing key areas of the squad. The potential arrivals of Elanga and Scalvini would not only inject fresh energy and youth into the team but also signal the club’s serious intent to challenge on all fronts in the 2025/26 season.
PIF’s backing remains strong, and if early moves are any indication, the Magpies could be on the verge of assembling one of the most exciting young squads in the Premier League.