Fabrizio Romano claims Newcastle United medical imminent as second summer transfer ‘all done’
Newcastle United are on the verge of completing the signing of Anthony Elanga, with the Swedish international agreeing to a five-year contract at St James’ Park. The move marks a significant breakthrough for the Magpies, who have finally landed one of their long-standing transfer targets after first expressing interest in the winger last summer.
Despite Nottingham Forest’s initial reluctance to sell, Newcastle have now successfully negotiated a deal that represents a record sale for Forest and becomes the second most expensive transfer in Newcastle’s history — only trailing behind Alexander Isak, who joined from Real Sociedad in 2022.
Elanga becomes the second player to join Newcastle during the current transfer window, following the free transfer arrival of highly rated youngster Antonio Cordero. However, Elanga is the first major addition to Eddie Howe’s senior squad as the Magpies prepare for what they hope will be a competitive Premier League campaign.
Medical Confirmed as Transfer Nears Completion
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, who first revealed Newcastle’s revived pursuit of Elanga last week, confirmed on Monday evening that the transfer is essentially done. He followed up with an update on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
> “Newcastle have already booked medical tests for Anthony Elanga. It’s all done and agreed as exclusively revealed last night.”
Elanga’s medical is scheduled to take place shortly, and barring any unexpected issues, the deal should be announced officially within days.
Elanga Trains Alone as Move Nears Finalization
While Newcastle’s first team returned to Benton for pre-season training on Monday, Elanga remained in Portugal, where he has been undergoing individual training sessions. Forest granted him additional time off following his international commitments with Sweden during the summer. However, with a transfer to Newcastle now imminent, it is increasingly unlikely that Elanga will rejoin Forest’s pre-season preparations.
The 23-year-old is set to bid farewell to the City Ground after two impressive seasons following his £15 million switch from Manchester United in 2023. His performances for Forest, especially last season where he contributed six goals and 12 assists in all competitions, caught the eye of several top-flight clubs — but it was Newcastle who showed the most persistence.
A Major Signing with a High Ceiling
In total, Elanga registered 11 goals and 21 assists in 82 appearances for Forest — a commendable return that underlined his development into one of the Premier League’s most exciting young wingers. His blistering pace, direct style, and creativity have made him a prime target for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, who sees him as a player capable of elevating the team’s attacking options.
The Magpies have been methodical in their pursuit, and the club’s willingness to invest heavily in Elanga demonstrates the faith they have in his potential. His transfer fee makes him Newcastle’s second-highest acquisition of all time, only behind his fellow Swede, Alexander Isak.
Meanwhile, Manchester United, Elanga’s former club, are set to benefit financially from the move as well. Due to a 15% sell-on clause included in his original deal to Forest, the Red Devils will reportedly receive around £6 million from the sale.
Reunions and Familiar Faces Await in the North East
Elanga’s transition to life on Tyneside is expected to be smooth, not least because of the familiar faces awaiting him at the club. He shares a strong relationship with compatriot Alexander Isak, and it has been revealed that the two had previously discussed the possibility of Elanga joining Newcastle, even before last summer’s failed approach. This time, the move has come to fruition.
The Swedish winger also enjoys a close friendship with Danish striker William Osula, who has also recently been linked with a move to Newcastle. The duo sparked fan speculation earlier this summer when they posted a TikTok video together, dancing and sharing a playful handshake — a clip that now feels more like a hint than a coincidence.
As Elanga prepares to complete his move and undergo a medical, excitement is growing among Newcastle supporters. The deal not only strengthens the squad but also signals that the club is serious about building a team capable of challenging at the top end of the Premier League.
With Elanga’s talent, youth, and experience already in English football, he could be a cornerstone of Newcastle’s future plans — and a thrilling new addition for the fans to cheer in the season ahead.