Newcastle Make ‘Initial Contact’ to Sign Premier League Attacker

Newcastle United have made initial contact with Nottingham Forest over the possibility of signing Anthony Elanga, according to Sky Sports. The Magpies tried to sign the 23-year-old on deadline day last year, and Eddie Howe is reportedly keen to bring the winger to St James’ Park this summer on the back of a highly impressive season.

‘Top Target’: Newcastle Make ‘Initial Contact’ with Nottingham Forest for Star Winger Anthony Elanga

Why Are Newcastle Interested in Elanga?

Anthony Elanga has enjoyed the best season of his career as Nottingham Forest exceeded all expectations to qualify for the UEFA Conference League, scoring six goals and recording 11 assists. Only Mohamed Salah (18) and Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy (12) notched more assists than the Swedish international this season, who has gone from strength to strength since joining Forest from Manchester United in 2023.

Strengthening in wide areas is a priority for Eddie Howe’s side this summer, and Elanga is reportedly one of four “top targets” the club have identified. The 23-year-old is capable of playing on both flanks, making him a highly valuable addition to a squad that will look to be competitive in both the Champions League and Premier League. 

Elanga also boasts an excellent injury record, having never missed a single game due to injury in his career and making 82 appearances across his two seasons at Forest. The winger is lightning-quick and capable of bypassing defenders with ease, a skillset he backs up with fantastic vision and football intelligence. 

Is Elanga Likely to Leave Nottingham Forest This Summer?

After securing a first return to European football since 1995, Nottingham Forest will be hopeful that they can keep hold of their star players, who are likely to be in high demand this summer. Elanga, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Murillo all have plenty of suitors, and Nuno Espirito Santo will hope to convince the trio to stay at the City Ground for next year’s Conference League campaign. 

If the forward does leave Forest this summer, it will reportedly require an eye-watering fee. Newcastle tabled a £35 million bid to sign the Swede last summer, which was turned down, and the 23-year-old’s impressive displays this season will have increased his price significantly. According to the Daily Mail, the Tricky Trees could demand over £50 million to prise Elanga away from Nottingham, which would surpass the £47.5 million Tottenham paid for Brennan Johnson back in 2023 and become the club’s record sale. 

Elanga has a strong relationship with Newcastle’s Swedish superstar Alexander Isak, and the prospect of playing in a forward line alongside his compatriot may also be a key factor in his decision along with the pull of Champions League football.

What is Elanga’s Contract Situation?

Elanga signed a five-year deal when he joined Nottingham Forest from Manchester United in the summer of 2023, and is therefore under contract at the City Ground until 2028. Although the winger has three years left on his current deal, the Tricky Trees may offer a new contract with improved terms to try and encourage the 23-year-old to stay.