Exclusive: Nottingham Forest add two exciting ‘targets’ to replace Anthony Elanga as well Johan Bakayoko
Nottingham Forest Waste No Time in Replacing Elanga as Shortlist of Winger Targets Emerges
Nottingham Forest are moving swiftly in the transfer market as they prepare for life without Anthony Elanga, who is edging closer to a big-money move to Newcastle United. Despite not finalising the transfer just yet, the club’s hierarchy — led by Evangelos Marinakis — is already working hard to secure a suitable replacement for one of their standout performers from last season.
Elanga’s influence on the pitch was immense throughout the previous campaign, registering 18 goal contributions across all competitions. Only Chris Wood managed to rival the Swedish international’s impact, and even then, many of the New Zealand striker’s goals came as a direct result of Elanga’s creative influence. Replacing that level of output is no small task, and Marinakis is reportedly treating it as a top priority heading into the heart of the summer transfer window.
According to Nottingham Forest News, the club has already drawn up a shortlist of potential replacements, with PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko named as a primary target. The 21-year-old Belgian international has been identified as a like-for-like replacement and is currently leading the way among Forest’s winger pursuits. However, Forest have also set their sights on two other players to ensure they have the best possible options, with Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott and Brazilian left-sided talent Cuiabano both being monitored closely.
Shortlist Taking Shape as Espírito Santo Eyes Dynamic Options
The urgency of the situation is compounded by manager Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans to bring in not just one, but two new wide players this summer. While depth is key, finding a direct replacement for Elanga remains the club’s most pressing concern. As such, the recruitment team is not just looking for squad fillers — they are seeking players who can deliver from the very start and match the standards set by Elanga.
Johan Bakayoko fits the bill almost perfectly. His ability to play on the right wing, coupled with his pace, dribbling, and end product, makes him a natural successor to Elanga. Forest believe that Bakayoko could slot straight into the side without requiring a tactical reshuffle, allowing the team to maintain continuity and attacking thrust.
Harvey Elliott: A Different Kind of Option
While Bakayoko seems to be the more obvious replacement on paper, Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott presents a different kind of opportunity. Though he made only two league starts for Liverpool last season, Elliott remains highly regarded as one of the Premier League’s most gifted young playmakers. His creative intelligence, vision, and technical skills could offer Forest something they didn’t quite have with Elanga — more control in the final third and a stronger link between midfield and attack.
Elliott’s performances in the recent UEFA U21 European Championships were a reminder of his ability to influence games not just through assists but also with crucial goals. While not a carbon copy of Elanga, Elliott could give Espírito Santo the tactical flexibility to evolve his side’s style of play — perhaps shifting towards more possession-based control rather than raw counter-attacking pace.
Cuiabano Remains a Wildcard
Although Cuiabano’s name continues to be linked with Forest, his playing profile suggests he’s more of a natural fit on the left flank. With Forest focusing on strengthening their right side following Elanga’s impending departure, Cuiabano might serve as more of a secondary target should they wish to reinforce both flanks over the course of the summer.
Final Thoughts: A Strategic Summer Ahead
As Nottingham Forest look to kick on from a challenging yet promising campaign, the club’s recruitment drive will play a crucial role in shaping their fortunes next season. Replacing a player of Elanga’s calibre is never easy, but with Bakayoko, Elliott, and Cuiabano on their radar, Forest have identified a blend of continuity and innovation in their shortlist.
Whether the club opts for a plug-and-play solution like Bakayoko or a slightly more creative tactical evolution with Elliott, one thing is clear: Nottingham Forest are not standing still. Their response to Elanga’s departure could very well determine how competitive they are in the 2025/26 Premier League season.