The blockbuster Arsenal and Nottingham Forest transfer swap deal that could electrify the summer window
Arsenal Set Sights on Anthony Elanga as Mikel Arteta Eyes Summer Reinforcements
Arsenal once again narrowly missed out on Premier League glory last season, finishing second behind champions Liverpool in a tense title race. Despite putting together an impressive campaign under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners fell short of leapfrogging Arne Slot’s side at the final hurdle. With the 2025/26 season fast approaching, attention at the Emirates has turned firmly towards the summer transfer window and what reinforcements might help tip the scales in their favour next time around.
Arteta and his recruitment team are expected to be active in the coming weeks as they look to strengthen key areas of the squad. While Arsenal already boast a strong core group, there is a consensus that further depth and variety are needed — particularly in attacking positions. Simultaneously, the club is open to offloading a few fringe players to free up space and balance the books.
One player who has emerged as a potential incoming is Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga. According to TBR Football, Arsenal have been monitoring the Swedish international closely, with Mikel Arteta reportedly viewing the 23-year-old as a dynamic option to boost his forward line.
Elanga enjoyed a standout season at the City Ground under head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, registering an impressive 11 assists and adding six goals of his own. His explosive pace, direct style, and ability to stretch defences on the break made him a key cog in Forest’s counter-attacking system — attributes Arsenal could find highly valuable in tight matches, particularly in European competition.
Having earned 22 senior caps for Sweden, Elanga’s international experience adds to his appeal. His performances last season suggest he is ready for the next step in his career, potentially at a club competing for silverware and regularly involved in the UEFA Champions League. Arsenal, back in the competition and looking to progress further, can offer that platform.
From Manchester to the Midlands — Elanga’s Rise
Elanga is no stranger to the spotlight, having come through the ranks at Manchester United. A product of their esteemed academy, he was highly regarded during his youth career and made 55 senior appearances for the Red Devils, scoring four times. However, he struggled for consistent starts and eventually made the switch to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2022 in search of regular game time.
Since moving to the East Midlands, Elanga has flourished. His decision to leave Old Trafford has been vindicated by his steady development and increased output. Now, with Arsenal circling, he may be poised for another leap — this time into the upper echelon of English football.
Reiss Nelson Could Be the Key to Unlocking Elanga Deal
In a bid to make a move for Elanga more appealing to Forest, Arsenal may consider including Reiss Nelson in a player-plus-cash deal. The 25-year-old winger has found opportunities hard to come by at the Emirates in recent seasons and is likely in need of a fresh start to reignite his career.
Despite showing early promise and enjoying loan stints at Hoffenheim and Feyenoord, Nelson has struggled to cement a regular place in Arteta’s plans. He made just 11 appearances while on loan at Fulham last term, scoring twice — a modest return that hasn’t helped his case for more involvement back at his parent club.
Crystal Palace have been credited with an interest in Nelson, according to TEAMtalk, but a move to Forest could be mutually beneficial. The Londoner has accumulated valuable experience in both domestic and European competitions and remains at an age where further development is possible.
Forest, for their part, have shown a keen eye for revitalising careers — as seen with both Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Adding Nelson to their ranks could help fill the void left by Elanga, should he depart, and give them a player with pedigree and potential who simply needs regular football.
The Bigger Picture
Arsenal’s pursuit of Elanga reflects their broader ambition to fine-tune an already competitive squad. With the Champions League and Premier League both in their sights, the Gunners must balance experience with youth and depth with dynamism. Elanga offers all of that — and more.
For Elanga, the opportunity to return to Champions League football, having previously featured for United in the competition, could be a persuasive factor. His style of play would complement Arsenal’s attacking approach, offering an injection of pace and unpredictability from wide areas.
Meanwhile, Nelson faces a crossroads. Remaining at Arsenal could see him continue to struggle for minutes, whereas a move to Forest or elsewhere would give him the chance to establish himself as a starter and rebuild his momentum.
As the summer unfolds, much will depend on Forest’s willingness to entertain offers for one of their most productive players. But should Arsenal table the right package — potentially including Nelson — they may just land a winger capable of making a real impact in North London.