Newcastle Agree £55m Deal for Anthony Elanga as Club Eyes Champions League Reinforcements

Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of Anthony Elanga after reaching a £55 million agreement with Nottingham Forest for the Sweden international, sources have confirmed to Sport360 Nigeria.

The deal, which could be finalised this week, marks a significant move as Newcastle look to bolster their attacking ranks ahead of their return to the UEFA Champions League. The Magpies finished fifth in the Premier League last season, securing a spot in Europe’s elite competition.

Elanga, 23, enjoyed a breakout campaign with Forest in 2024–25, registering six goals and 11 assists under Nuno Espirito Santo. His form has caught the attention of several clubs, but Newcastle have moved swiftly to secure his services.

The move would represent Newcastle’s first major outlay of the summer transfer window. So far, their only addition has been 18-year-old Spanish winger Antonio Cordero, who joined on a free from Malaga.

Elanga initially joined Forest in 2023 for a reported £15 million fee from Manchester United. A product of United’s academy, he made 55 senior appearances before making the switch to the City Ground.

Why Elanga Fits the Bill for Newcastle
Elanga’s performances last season saw his reputation soar, with advanced metrics placing him among the Premier League’s most effective wide attackers.

Data from Opta via FBref shows the Swede ranks in the top percentiles for key offensive stats among wingers and attacking midfielders. He sits in the 80th percentile for goal-creating actions, indicating a higher output than the majority of his peers in that category.

His shooting accuracy and efficiency also stand out. Elanga converts chances with minimal waste, frequently hitting the target and making goalkeepers work. Additionally, his crossing ability surpasses that of Newcastle’s current wide options—averaging 6.65 crosses per 90 minutes compared to Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, or Jacob Murphy, none of whom exceed 4.85.

Perhaps most notably, his progressive carries—how often he drives the ball towards the opponent’s goal—highlight his direct style and ability to unsettle defences. Combined with a strong goals-per-shot ratio, Elanga has shown the kind of incisiveness Newcastle are seeking in the final third.

Capable of playing both out wide and centrally, Elanga brings the versatility, pace, and creativity Newcastle need as they prepare to compete on both domestic and European fronts next season.