£50M star no longer untouchable as Newcastle given one condition for signing
Newcastle United must maximize the January transfer window to boost their chances of securing Champions League qualification. The Magpies are enjoying an impressive run, having secured four consecutive Premier League victories, which propelled them to fifth place in the table. This resurgence highlights the remarkable progress Eddie Howe’s squad has made, especially after a sluggish start to the season.
Their recent victory against Manchester United demonstrated the strides the team has taken under Howe’s leadership. However, this momentum must be sustained, and the transfer window presents a crucial opportunity for sporting director Paul Mitchell to strengthen the squad.
After a challenging summer window where Newcastle struggled to secure quality signings despite numerous links, this January could define their season. While bolstering the squad is essential, Newcastle must offload players to create space for new arrivals, with Miguel Almirón among those potentially leaving.
Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest has emerged as a potential target for Newcastle. The Magpies made a deadline-day bid for the 22-year-old in the summer, signaling their interest in the winger.
Newcastle’s right wing has been a persistent weak spot since Howe’s appointment in 2021. Although Jacob Murphy has recently found good form, there are doubts about whether he can sustain this level throughout the season.
With Almirón’s departure seeming likely, adding Elanga could provide Newcastle with a long-term solution while also weakening a direct competitor like Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest, enjoying a strong season, are reportedly reluctant to part ways with key players like Elanga. However, financial considerations in a PSR-driven environment could compel them to accept a significant offer.
Should Elanga join Newcastle, he would reunite with his Swedish compatriot Alexander Isak. Despite Forest’s overall success, Elanga has had a mixed season, scoring three goals and providing three assists while featuring in every Premier League game. These contributions, though modest, hint at potential that could flourish in a different setup.
In addition to Elanga, Newcastle has also expressed interest in Brentford midfielder Bryan Mbeumo, who would reportedly cost around £50 million. This reinforces the Magpies’ ambition to solidify their squad depth and maintain their push for a top-four finish.
A statistical comparison of Elanga with Newcastle’s current wingers underscores the rationale behind the club’s interest. Elanga has shown flashes of brilliance during a hectic season, scoring three goals and delivering one assist in his last four games, including a crucial strike against Tottenham Hotspur.
Comparatively, Jacob Murphy has also been in fine form, playing a key role in Newcastle’s recent victories. However, Murphy, at 29, represents a short-term solution, whereas Elanga offers long-term potential.
| Appearances (League) | Goals | Assists | Key Passes/90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Elanga | 19 | 3 | 3 |
| Jacob Murphy | 16 | 3 | 6 |
| Miguel Almirón | 7 | 0 | 0 |
These statistics highlight Murphy’s superiority in terms of key contributions this season, but Elanga’s potential as a younger, long-term asset makes him an attractive prospect for Newcastle. While Almirón has struggled to make an impact, Elanga’s involvement in every Premier League game for Forest this season indicates his readiness for consistent top-flight action.
Elanga’s versatility, pace, and ability to link up with players like Isak could transform Newcastle’s attacking options. He fits the profile of a player who can adapt to Howe’s tactical setup while providing the team with a dynamic edge in the final third.
Additionally, securing a player of Elanga’s caliber could serve as a statement of intent, showcasing Newcastle’s ambition to compete with the Premier League’s elite.
The January transfer window represents a pivotal moment for Newcastle United. While the club’s current form is commendable, maintaining this momentum will require smart acquisitions.
Elanga’s arrival could address a long-standing issue on the right wing while ensuring the team remains competitive in the race for Champions League qualification. However, Newcastle must strike a balance between short-term needs and long-term goals, ensuring that every signing aligns with the club’s vision for sustained success.