Newcastle likely to see £20m + bid accepted to sign dream Elanga upgrade
Newcastle United are set to return to the UEFA Champions League next season, a significant achievement that underscores their progress under the guidance of manager Eddie Howe. However, with European football on the horizon and domestic competition intensifying, Howe is acutely aware that bolstering the first-team squad will be essential if the Magpies are to maintain momentum and challenge on multiple fronts.
The 2024–25 campaign promises to be a defining one for the club. Despite injury concerns and limited depth in the attacking department, Newcastle managed to finish within the Premier League’s top five, securing a coveted Champions League berth. They also claimed the Carabao Cup in style, overcoming a dominant Liverpool side in a memorable final — a major milestone for the club and its fans.
Much of this success was achieved without a fully reinforced attacking unit, something Howe aims to address during the summer transfer window. Strengthening the frontline has become a top priority, and efforts are already underway.
According to a report by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Newcastle recently submitted a £45 million bid for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga. Despite the substantial offer, Forest have made it clear they are unwilling to part ways with the Swedish international, viewing him as a key component of their squad.
In light of Forest’s firm stance, Newcastle have reportedly explored alternative targets. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo and West Ham’s versatile forward Mohammed Kudus are both on the radar. However, one name attracting growing interest is Celtic winger Nicolas Kühn.
As reported by Football Insider, Celtic are determined to keep hold of the 25-year-old German talent, who has emerged as a pivotal figure under manager Brendan Rodgers. Nonetheless, sources suggest that a bid in the region of £20 million could tempt the Scottish champions to consider a sale, particularly if interest from clubs like Newcastle and Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig intensifies.
Kühn’s style of play — characterized by pace, creativity, and tactical versatility — would likely fit seamlessly into Howe’s dynamic system at St. James’ Park. Given that Newcastle were willing to invest more than double that amount for Elanga, securing Kühn for a comparatively modest fee could represent astute business in a competitive transfer market.
Ultimately, with a return to the Champions League demanding a stronger squad capable of competing at the highest level, Newcastle are expected to remain active and ambitious throughout the summer. Fans can expect more movement in the coming weeks, as the club aims to build on the foundations of an already remarkable season.