Elanga replacement: Nottingham Forest set to break the bank to sign the Spanish Winger, amid Arsenal interest
Nottingham Forest Target Talented £8.5m Winger as Potential Anthony Elanga Successor
Nottingham Forest are reportedly exploring the transfer market for a dynamic new winger amid growing uncertainty over the future of Anthony Elanga. According to fresh reports from Spain, Forest have set their sights on Real Valladolid star Raúl Moro as a potential replacement, with the La Liga ace attracting attention following a strong individual season despite his club’s relegation.
Elanga Continues to Shine as Premier League Giants Circle
Elanga has been one of Nottingham Forest’s standout performers over the past two seasons, with his development proving crucial to the club’s rise. The Sweden international impressed during the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, building on a solid debut season with even better numbers. After contributing five goals and nine assists in his first year at the City Ground, the winger raised his game further, finishing last season with six goals and 11 assists. His electric pace, creativity, and consistency were instrumental in helping Forest qualify for the Europa Conference League.
Unsurprisingly, Elanga’s performances have not gone unnoticed. Premier League rivals are now circling, keen to lure the 22-year-old away from the East Midlands. Newcastle United, who showed interest in signing Elanga last summer, have reportedly reignited their pursuit. Manager Eddie Howe is believed to be a huge admirer of the Swedish winger and has allegedly made him a top priority for the upcoming transfer window.
But the Magpies aren’t the only suitors. Arsenal have now entered the race, according to journalist Graeme Bailey, and are closely monitoring the player’s situation. The Gunners are joined by other Premier League heavyweights including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa, all of whom have reportedly kept tabs on Elanga’s progress. Nottingham Forest, aware of the growing interest, have placed a £60 million valuation on the winger in a bid to deter suitors and retain one of their key assets.
Forest Eye Moro as Long-Term Successor
As speculation surrounding Elanga’s future intensifies, Forest are preparing contingency plans. Reports from Spanish media, relayed by Sport Witness, indicate that the club is now eyeing 22-year-old winger Raúl Moro from Real Valladolid as a possible replacement. Despite Valladolid’s relegation from Spain’s top flight, Moro stood out as one of the team’s few bright spots during a difficult season.
The former Lazio player featured in 33 La Liga games and scored four goals, drawing attention for his technical ability, pace, and attacking intent. Moro’s performances were described as “impeccable” by Spanish sources, and his potential has been widely recognised—particularly by talent scout Jacek Kulig, who labelled him as a “great” prospect.
Forest are not alone in their interest, with AFC Bournemouth also said to be monitoring the winger’s availability. Valladolid, despite their drop to the Segunda División, are holding out for a fee in the region of €10 million (approximately £8.5 million). So far, no formal offers have been submitted, but that could change quickly as clubs look to bolster their squads before the transfer window officially opens next week.
Premier League Move a Possibility for Moro
This isn’t the first time Moro has been linked with a move to England. In fact, back in December 2024, the winger was reportedly on the radar of Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester City. While it remains unclear whether those clubs are still actively pursuing him, the renewed interest from Forest and Bournemouth suggests he remains highly regarded across Europe.
Should Elanga depart this summer, Moro could provide a youthful and exciting option for Nottingham Forest to rebuild around. While not a like-for-like replacement, the Spaniard’s technical flair and attacking potential could offer Forest another creative outlet on the flanks—especially if they aim to remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions.
For now, Forest’s priority will be holding onto Elanga. But in the unpredictable world of football transfers, having a capable replacement lined up may prove to be a smart move.