Anthony Elanga’s imminent move to Newcastle United has sparked a wave of excitement among supporters, and not just because of his £55 million price tag.
While the club’s official confirmation is still pending, the Swedish winger has already started turning heads—not with words, but with a blistering show of pace that’s left fans breathless and defenders warned.
After weeks of drawn-out negotiations, Newcastle have finally reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest for Elanga, a player Eddie Howe has admired and pursued for over a year.
The saga dates back to a surprise deadline day bid last summer, one that Forest rejected. Now, with personal terms never in doubt and intermediary issues resolved, Elanga is set to complete his move to Tyneside pending a medical.
His desire to work with Howe and join friends already at the club only solidified the deal, with the player reportedly eager to be part of the club’s growing project.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Anthony Elanga of Nottingham Forest scores his team’s first goal past Fraser Forster of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at City Ground on December 26, 2024 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
What has fans even more thrilled is what Elanga recently posted on Instagram—a 100-meter sprint clocked at a jaw-dropping 10.93 seconds and a recorded top speed of 39.75 km/h.
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For context, Newcastle’s fastest player last season, Harvey Barnes, peaked at 34.7 km/h. Elanga’s speed puts him well ahead in a squad already packed with quick players like Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento.
His explosive pace is not just impressive; it’s game-changing for a team that thrives on transitions and counter-attacks.
Elanga’s confidence in his own speed is no secret. In a 2024 interview, he boldly claimed to be the fastest player in the Premier League.
That self-belief is exactly the type of mindset Howe loves in his players. Jacob Murphy might have once tipped Will Osula as the quickest man at the club, but that title may soon shift when Elanga pulls on the black-and-white shirt.
For Howe, Elanga represents more than just speed. The winger brings creativity, high energy, and the ability to break down defensive lines—a crucial asset, especially with Newcastle returning to the Champions League.
Last season, Elanga delivered 12 assists for Forest, created nine big chances, and averaged 1.3 key passes per game. According to advanced analytics, he ranked in the top 6% for assists and top 3% for crosses among Premier League players in his position.
