Just in: Newcastle set to sign £40m ‘lightning-quick’ star compared to Dembele, deal has already been submitted as the player wants the move

Newcastle United’s £40 Million Bid for Anthony Elanga Rejected by Nottingham Forest

 

Newcastle United have made a bold move in the summer transfer market by submitting a £40 million offer for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga, but the bid has been turned down, according to journalist Sebastien Vidal. The Swedish international is believed to be a top target for manager Eddie Howe, who is keen to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new season.

 

Strengthening the Flanks a Priority for Eddie Howe

 

Adding reinforcements on the wings is seen as a major area of focus for Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy this summer. Although Jacob Murphy featured heavily on the right wing during the 2024/25 campaign and performed impressively, his standout displays came as something of a surprise considering his generally modest form in previous seasons. At 29, Murphy is also nearing the twilight of his career, and Newcastle are thought to be planning for the future.

 

While the Magpies do possess talented wide players in Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes, both are more naturally suited to playing on the left flank. As a result, finding a dynamic and long-term option for the right wing has become a pressing need—one that the club seemingly hoped Elanga could fulfill.

 

Forest Set Steep Price Tag for Elanga

 

According to Vidal’s report shared on X (formerly Twitter), Nottingham Forest have turned down Newcastle’s initial £40 million approach, with the Midlands club valuing Elanga closer to the £50 million mark. Despite the rejection, the 22-year-old forward is reportedly interested in a switch to St James’ Park, which could encourage further negotiations between the two clubs.

 

Elanga enjoyed a breakthrough season with Forest and has caught the eye of several Premier League sides thanks to his explosive speed, versatility, and work rate. Described as “lightning-quick” and even compared to PSG star Ousmane Dembélé by Opta Analyst, the Swedish winger has shown the ability to play across the front line—making him an appealing option for Howe’s fluid attacking system.

 

Potential Implications for Newcastle’s Attack

 

Elanga’s potential arrival could have wider implications for Newcastle’s current attacking setup. His pace and adaptability make him an ideal candidate for a team that thrives in transition, particularly under Howe’s counter-attacking philosophy. His signing could offer Newcastle not only depth but also a genuine long-term solution on the right side of their front three.

 

Additionally, speculation surrounding Anthony Gordon’s future adds further intrigue. The England international has recently been linked with a move to Liverpool, with reports suggesting he is open to a return to Merseyside. If Newcastle are indeed bracing for Gordon’s possible departure, their pursuit of Elanga may be as much about succession planning as it is about adding depth.

 

What Happens Next?

 

With Forest holding firm on their valuation, it remains to be seen whether Newcastle will return with an improved offer. However, given Elanga’s reported interest in the move and Newcastle’s clear ambition to strengthen in wide areas, the story is unlikely to end here. The next few weeks could prove decisive as the Magpies look to shape a squad capable of challenging on both domestic and European fronts in the upcoming season.