PIF not messing: Newcastle lodge first “enquiry” to sign “superb” £70m star alongside Elanga

Newcastle United’s summer business has begun to take shape, as the club intensifies its pursuit of key targets in preparation for their return to Champions League football.

Following the confirmed acquisition of promising Spanish talent Antonio Cordero, the Magpies have wasted no time making their intentions clear with a flurry of high-profile transfer activity.

Among the first significant moves, the club has made formal enquiries into Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga and Brighton’s Joao Pedro, two Premier League talents seen as crucial additions to bolster Eddie Howe’s squad ahead of a demanding new season.

Anthony Elanga has emerged as a prominent target, particularly after Bryan Mbeumo reportedly edged closer to a move to Manchester United, narrowing Newcastle’s options on the wing.

Elanga, who has enjoyed his most productive campaign yet in the Premier League, looks primed for a fresh chapter—possibly on Tyneside. After leaving Manchester United, his resurgence at Forest has turned heads, and his consistent performances have earned admiration across the league.

Now, Newcastle are keen to take advantage of that growth, viewing Elanga not just as a depth option, but as a genuine contender for a starting role in a front line already boasting the talents of Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy.

The numbers speak for themselves. Elanga clocked 2,501 minutes in the league last season, matching Gordon’s six goals while surpassing him in assists with eleven.

His pace, directness, and ability to stretch defences have made him a constant threat, and despite stiff competition within Newcastle’s attacking ranks, he may well edge out Gordon for a starting role if his form continues.

While Murphy netted eight goals and delivered twelve assists in a similarly productive campaign, Elanga’s younger age and upward trajectory make him an attractive long-term option for Howe’s evolving system.

Nottingham Forest, however, are unlikely to let their standout winger leave without resistance. Club owner Evangelos Marinakis and head coach Nuno Espirito Santo are eager to build on last season’s momentum, and keeping Elanga is a major part of that strategy.

The 22-year-old has become integral to Forest’s attacking identity, and any move would need to satisfy both financial expectations and the club’s ambition to remain competitive in the top flight.

Still, Newcastle’s considerable financial clout—backed by Saudi ownership—may tip the balance. Having been restricted by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) in previous transfer windows, the club is now poised to spend aggressively, emboldened by their Champions League status and the green light to invest once more.

But Elanga isn’t the only name on Newcastle’s radar. The club has also lodged an enquiry for Brighton forward Joao Pedro, a player with immense potential despite a turbulent end to the season.

Reports suggest Brighton have placed a hefty £70 million valuation on the Brazilian, signaling that any potential deal will come at a premium.

Pedro’s situation at the Amex took a turn when new head coach Fabian Hurzeler benched him for disciplinary reasons late in the campaign.

Though the circumstances remain unclear, the decision cast doubt over the player’s long-term future on the south coast.

Still, Pedro’s season wasn’t without merit. Though he managed just ten goals across all competitions, the Brazilian showed flashes of brilliance, prompting admiration from figures across the footballing world. Among his supporters was none other than Alan Shearer, who called Pedro “superb” during a standout performance in November.

For Newcastle, Pedro represents more than just another striker—he brings flair, technical quality, and positional versatility, attributes that could prove vital in European competition and the demanding domestic calendar.

Both pursuits reflect Newcastle’s broader strategy heading into the summer. There is a clear focus on adding proven Premier League performers with room to grow, players who can adapt quickly and contribute from the outset.

The ambition is no longer just to compete, but to contend—both in England and on the European stage. With funds available and the promise of Champions League nights at St. James’ Park, the club’s recruitment pitch carries more weight than it has in years.

These early moves in the window demonstrate Newcastle’s readiness to act swiftly and decisively. Whether it’s outmuscling rivals for Elanga or negotiating a mega-money move for Joao Pedro, the club has laid down a marker that it intends to be a major player once again.

As preparations ramp up for the new season, fans can expect more developments in the coming weeks, with a clear message from the boardroom: Newcastle United are back at Europe’s top table, and they intend to stay there.