Sky Sports claim Newcastle are interested in move for one of Germany’s fastest players
Newcastle United Shift Focus After Elanga Bid Rejected, Eye Alternatives Including Karim Adeyemi
Newcastle United appear to be weighing up alternative transfer options after their substantial bid for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga was turned down. The Magpies tabled a formal offer believed to be worth around £45 million for the Swedish international, but Forest firmly rejected the proposal, making it clear that any deal would require a significantly higher fee.
Sources close to the situation, including Geordie Boot Boys, report that Forest have placed a hefty £60 million valuation on Elanga — a figure that currently seems too steep for Newcastle to match. While it remains uncertain whether the Tyneside club will return with an improved offer, attention is already turning to other possible signings as the summer window heats up.
Fortunately for Eddie Howe and his recruitment team, Elanga is not the only name on their list. Newcastle are believed to be exploring several exciting attacking options who could add depth and dynamism to their forward line.
Newcastle United Exploring Attacking Alternatives
Shortly after reports surfaced of the failed Elanga bid, Sky Sports provided further insight into Newcastle’s ongoing transfer strategy. According to their sources, the club has identified three players as potential alternatives should a deal for Elanga prove unattainable.
Among those being monitored are PSV Eindhoven’s rising star Johan Bakayoko and West Ham United’s versatile attacker Mohammed Kudus. Both players have been linked with St James’ Park in the past and are seen as viable options to bolster Newcastle’s offensive options, particularly on the flanks.
Another standout name on the list is Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi — a player with Champions League pedigree and explosive potential.
Karim Adeyemi on Newcastle’s Radar
Adeyemi, a 23-year-old German international, has emerged as a serious candidate for a move to the Premier League. Known for his blistering pace and attacking flair, the Dortmund man is capable of playing anywhere across the front three. During the 2023/24 Bundesliga campaign, Adeyemi netted seven goals in just 17 starts, underlining his effectiveness despite a relatively limited run in the starting XI.
But it’s not just his goal-scoring ability that catches the eye. Adeyemi brings creativity as well, averaging 1.1 key passes per game in the Bundesliga last season — a stat that would have placed him sixth among Newcastle’s squad over the same period. His direct style of play and willingness to take on defenders make him an attractive option for a Newcastle side that often relies on quick transitions and wide play.
Record-Breaking Speed and Champions League Experience
Perhaps the most eye-catching aspect of Adeyemi’s profile is his extraordinary pace. According to the official Bundesliga website, he is one of the fastest players in the competition’s history. In a match against SC Freiburg during the 2023 season, Adeyemi was clocked at a top speed of 36.65 km/h — the fourth-highest ever recorded in the German top flight at the time.
Newcastle fans may also remember Adeyemi from his performances against their side in the UEFA Champions League. During the 2023/24 group stage, he faced the Magpies twice, impressing in both outings. Most notably, in the return fixture in November 2023, Adeyemi set up Julian Brandt’s decisive second goal in Dortmund’s 2-0 victory — a result that ultimately proved crucial in eliminating Newcastle from the competition.
What Next for Newcastle in the Market?
With Forest playing hardball over Elanga and demanding a figure that could disrupt Newcastle’s financial strategy under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the club may now accelerate their pursuit of alternatives. Bakayoko, Kudus, and Adeyemi each offer different qualities, but all align with Newcastle’s recruitment philosophy: young, hungry talents with high ceilings and European experience.
Whether or not the club circles back to Elanga with an improved bid remains to be seen. But one thing is clear — Newcastle United are actively working behind the scenes to ensure they strengthen their attack ahead of a crucial campaign, both domestically and in Europe.