Newcastle United want to sign £60m two-footed monster who can transform Eddie Howe attack
Anthony Elanga Already the Perfect Fit for Newcastle as Transfer Talks Progress
Anthony Elanga has already given a clear indication of why he could be the ideal addition to Newcastle United’s squad, especially as the Magpies continue their search for a top-class right-winger. The Swedish international’s pace, versatility, and two-footed ability make him a standout target — one that the club is now pushing hard to secure.
Elanga has long been on Newcastle’s radar. The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park last summer, with a late bid from the club ultimately falling short. Since then, Elanga has gone on to play a pivotal role at Nottingham Forest, helping the Reds secure European qualification for the first time since the mid-90s. That form has only strengthened Newcastle’s resolve, and reports suggest the club are now in advanced negotiations to bring him to Tyneside.
While no agreement has been finalised just yet, Forest are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £60 million — a valuation that would place Elanga among the most expensive signings in Newcastle’s history, close to the club-record £63m fee paid for Alexander Isak in 2022.
The Right-Wing Role: A Priority for Newcastle
Under Eddie Howe and the ownership of the Saudi-backed consortium, Newcastle United have made steady progress in strengthening their squad across the pitch. However, the right-wing position remains the only area where the Magpies have not made a senior signing since the 2021 takeover.
Yankuba Minteh, who was initially seen as a potential long-term option, never featured for the senior side and has since made a permanent move to Brighton & Hove Albion. Other targets, including Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, have not materialised, with the Cameroon international reportedly leaning toward a move to Manchester United. As a result, Elanga has emerged as Newcastle’s primary focus in the final third — a player they believe can finally fill that long-vacant right-wing role.
Why Elanga Fits the Bill
Elanga is predominantly a right-winger but is equally comfortable on the left, thanks to his rare ability to use both feet with confidence. His searing pace is one of his most valuable attributes; he was officially clocked as the fifth-fastest player in the Premier League last season — a quality that aligns perfectly with Newcastle’s counter-attacking style.
Speaking after a standout performance and match-winning goal against Manchester United in April, Elanga gave insight into his playing style — the very qualities that Newcastle see as key to elevating their attacking threat.
> “It’s about attacking space and getting to the goal as quickly as possible,” he said. “I saw the opening and I believe I’m one of the fastest in the league. That’s what I try to use to my advantage.
“The finishing is something I’ve worked on a lot this season — whether it’s with my left foot or my right foot, I feel comfortable shooting with either.”
This versatility and confidence on either wing — along with his rapid development and experience in both domestic and international football — make Elanga a very attractive prospect for Howe’s plans.
Elanga on Transfer Speculation
Despite the heavy speculation linking him with a move away from the City Ground, Elanga has remained diplomatic when asked about his future. Speaking to Swedish media recently, the winger was calm and composed, acknowledging the attention but making it clear his focus remains on performing consistently.
> “There’s a lot of talk,” he said. “But my focus was on the match today. In football, there are always rumours. What matters to me is staying focused on what I can control.”
“I know there are scouts watching, wherever I play. As long as I stay grounded and do my best on the pitch, that’s all I can control — how I train, how I play, and how I recover. I take things one day at a time.”
A Move That Makes Sense for All Parties
Newcastle’s pursuit of Elanga appears to be gaining real momentum, and the club is confident that a deal can be struck soon. With the new season approaching and European football back on the agenda, Eddie Howe is keen to build a squad capable of competing on all fronts — and Elanga’s arrival could represent a major statement of intent.
For Forest, the potential £60m sale would represent significant business — especially considering Elanga was signed for around £15m from Manchester United only a year ago. For Newcastle, it could be the final piece of the puzzle in a long-term rebuild that has so far seen careful but ambitious recruitment across the board.
One thing is clear: Elanga’s skillset, mentality, and upward trajectory make him a player to watch — and potentially, Newcastle’s next star wide man.
