Newcastle United Close to Securing Anthony Elanga with £55 Million Second Offer
Newcastle United Intensify Pursuit of Nottingham Forest’s Star Winger
Newcastle United have stepped up their efforts to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest by submitting a second and significantly improved bid worth around £55 million. This new offer edges closer to Forest’s valuation of the Swedish winger, set at £60 million, with ongoing negotiations primarily focused on the payment structure and timing of the deal. Sources suggest Newcastle may slightly increase their bid to finalize terms, signaling the club’s determination to bring Elanga to St James’ Park this summer.
From Rejected Bids to a Near-Accepted Offer
Newcastle’s initial £45 million bid was firmly rejected by Nottingham Forest, who have been steadfast in their £60 million asking price. Despite Forest’s reluctance to sell one of their prized assets, the bidding pressure and Newcastle’s persistence have brought the clubs to the negotiating table. The Magpies’ renewed offer reportedly has been accepted in principle, making Elanga one of Newcastle’s top transfer priorities alongside other targets like Giorgio Scalvini and James Trafford.
Elanga’s Appeal and Newcastle’s Tactical Need
At 23 years old and capped 22 times by Sweden, Anthony Elanga is highly regarded as a dynamic and promising winger. His performances for Nottingham Forest, including a memorable 85-metre solo sprint past Manchester United defenders, have underscored his potential as a long-term attacking asset.
Newcastle’s interest is driven by the need to boost their right-wing options, a role weakened since the January departure of Miguel Almiron. Currently, Jacob Murphy stands as the only senior natural right-winger in the squad, making Elanga a crucial addition to enhance competition and depth. With Newcastle returning to the Champions League, squad rotation and injury management will be vital, increasing the importance of high-quality depth that Elanga is expected to provide.
Elanga Drawn to Newcastle’s Project and Champions League Football
Elanga’s growing relationship with Newcastle’s squad stars like William Osula, Alexander Isak, and Emil Krafth, combined with the lure of Champions League football, has made the prospect of joining Newcastle highly attractive. While Aston Villa has also expressed late interest, Newcastle remains confident of securing the winger thanks to their competitive project and top-tier European football ambitions.
Financial and Contractual Nuances
Besides the headline fee, an important element in the deal is Manchester United’s 15% sell-on profit clause, as Elanga was previously owned by them. This adds complexity to negotiations on payment timing and terms between Newcastle and Forest, currently the key sticking points in finalizing the transfer.
Newcastle continue to scout other winger options such as Johan Bakayoko of PSV, Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, and Mohammed Kudus at West Ham, but Elanga remains the standout target to meet Head Coach Eddie Howe’s vision for strengthening the attack.
Nottingham Forest’s Position and Market Context
Nottingham Forest view Elanga as a significant asset and are reluctant sellers given his value and potential contribution to their team. However, the escalating bids and Newcastle’s sustained interest may force their hand this summer. Elanga’s emerging status as a £60 million talent highlights the competitive nature of the Premier League transfer market and Newcastle’s aggressive approach to squad building.
Sources:
- Sky Sports
- Shields Gazette
- The Times
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Anthony Elanga’s transfer to Newcastle?
Newcastle United’s improved offer of around £55 million has reportedly been accepted in principle by Nottingham Forest, with final details on payment structure still being negotiated.
Why is Newcastle so interested in signing Anthony Elanga?
Elanga is seen as a promising and dynamic winger who can strengthen Newcastle’s right-wing options, especially following Miguel Almiron’s departure, and provide valuable depth for Champions League competitions.
Are there other clubs interested in Anthony Elanga?
Aston Villa have shown late interest in Elanga, but Newcastle remains the frontrunner due to their Champions League football and Elanga’s established connections within the Newcastle squad.
How does Manchester United factor into this transfer?
Manchester United hold a 15% sell-on profit clause on Elanga, which impacts the negotiation and payment terms between Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
What other transfer targets is Newcastle focusing on this summer?
Aside from Elanga, Newcastle is pursuing other key targets like central defender Giorgio Scalvini from Atalanta and goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley.
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