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Newcastle United have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to sign Sweden international Anthony Elanga for a fee of $75 million. According to sources from BBC Sport, the deal could be finalized within the week.
The Magpies are keen to reinforce their attacking lineup ahead of their Champions League return, following a fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season. Elanga, 23, had a standout season with Forest, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists in the 2024–25 campaign under manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
So far, Newcastle have not paid a transfer fee for any player this summer. Their only signing has been 18-year-old Antonio Cordero, who joined on a free transfer from Malaga. Elanga would therefore be their first major acquisition of the transfer window.
Forest initially signed Elanga from Manchester United in 2023 for around £15 million. The winger had spent over a decade at Old Trafford, joining the academy at age 12 and making 55 senior appearances before making the move to the City Ground.
Newcastle's interest in Elanga highlights his rapid development. His performance data shows improvement across several key attacking metrics. He ranks in the top percentiles for goal-creating actions and shots on target among Premier League wingers. With 6.65 crosses per 90 minutes, he outperforms Newcastle's current wide players, none of whom average more than 4.85. His ability to progress the ball, beat defenders and score efficiently makes him a dynamic threat in the final third. These traits are exactly what Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has been looking for.
Howe has tracked Elanga for a year and now finally secures a player he believes will add pace, creativity and depth. Elanga's versatility allows him to play both wide and centrally, providing Newcastle with valuable rotation options for their European campaign.
Although Nottingham Forest were reluctant to let him go, Newcastle's offer matched their valuation. Elanga did not force a move, but the transfer represents a significant profit. Forest had previously resisted Newcastle's interest, but this record sale proved too tempting.
While Forest lose a key contributor, they are expected to respond in the market. PSV's Johan Bakayoko remains a target as Forest aim to reinforce their squad ahead of European competition.
