Report: Nottingham Forest now join race to sign “fantastic” £50m+ star who could replace Elanga

Nottingham Forest Eye Ademola Lookman as Anthony Elanga Edges Closer to Newcastle Switch

 

With Newcastle United growing increasingly confident of completing a deal for Anthony Elanga, Nottingham Forest have already set their sights on a high-profile replacement, reportedly preparing to splash out over £50 million in a bold summer move.

 

Newcastle Closing in on Elanga

 

Newcastle’s pursuit of Anthony Elanga appears to be approaching a successful conclusion. Despite Nottingham Forest initially rebuffing their opening offer, Eddie Howe’s side has not backed down. According to trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Magpies have returned with a significantly improved bid in the region of £55 million. The mood in the North East is now one of quiet optimism, with belief growing that they can finalise personal terms and bring the Swedish international to St James’ Park.

 

Elanga’s departure would undoubtedly be a major loss for Forest. The 23-year-old played a crucial role under Nuno Espirito Santo last season, helping the club secure European qualification and becoming a key attacking outlet with his explosive pace and versatility across the front line.

 

However, Forest are wasting no time lamenting the potential exit. Instead, they’ve already taken proactive steps to reinforce their forward options in what could be a transformative transfer window for the Midlands club.

 

Forest Begin Reinforcements with Igor Jesus

 

One of the first pieces of that puzzle has already arrived in the form of Brazilian forward Igor Jesus, who signed from Botafogo over the weekend. The 22-year-old is highly regarded and viewed as an exciting addition to the squad as Forest prepare for a demanding season, balancing domestic and European commitments.

 

Speaking to the club’s official media channels upon his arrival, Jesus said:

 

> “I’m really happy to be a part of this new story, especially at a club like Nottingham Forest.

I didn’t have to think twice about the offer—I embraced it immediately. I’m delighted to be coming here and I’ll give everything to help us achieve great things and bring joy to all the Forest family.”

 

 

 

While Jesus adds depth and potential to the attacking line-up, Forest’s next move could make a real statement in the market.

 

Forest Join the Race for £52m Star Ademola Lookman

 

Reports emerging from Spain suggest Nottingham Forest have now formally entered the race to sign Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, with the Serie A side said to value the Nigerian winger at around €60 million (£52 million). Lookman is attracting serious attention this summer, with Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa also keeping close tabs on the former Premier League man.

 

Forest’s interest could gather pace quickly, especially if Elanga’s transfer to Newcastle is finalised, giving Evangelos Marinakis the financial firepower to challenge their rivals for Lookman’s signature.

 

The 26-year-old is coming off the back of a stellar season in Italy, where he scored 20 goals across all competitions, including a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen. His rise under Gian Piero Gasperini has been nothing short of remarkable, with the manager previously lauding Lookman’s evolution as both a team player and a leader.

 

> “Lookman became a fantastic player when he improved his perception of the team,” Gasperini told reporters.

“He used to have a more individual approach—not in a bad way, but he focused on himself. Now he plays for the team. Atalanta made him great, and he made Atalanta great. I’m convinced he could even be the captain soon.”

 

 

 

A High-Stakes Summer for Forest

 

Should Forest succeed in luring Lookman back to the Premier League, it could prove to be a masterstroke. The former Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City forward had struggled to fully establish himself in England, but his resurgence in Italy has redefined his career. Now more mature, more efficient, and more composed in the final third, Lookman could be exactly what Forest need to replace Elanga—and perhaps even surpass him in terms of output.

 

With Igor Jesus already signed and the Elanga situation nearing resolution, the next few weeks could be pivotal for Forest’s summer rebuild. Whether they can fend off European competition for Lookman remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Nottingham Forest are not content with standing still. They intend to build on last season’s success—and they’re ready to spend big to do it.