The new ‘sign’ coming out of talks between Nottingham Forest star Anthony Elanga and Newcastle United – report

Newcastle United’s pursuit of Anthony Elanga remains very much alive, despite Nottingham Forest holding firm on their £60 million valuation.

The Premier League club sees the Swedish international as a key piece of their summer transfer plans, and although initial bids have fallen short of Forest’s expectations, Newcastle haven’t stepped away from the negotiating table.

Their most recent offer of £50 million, while still under the asking price, clearly shows they are edging closer in an effort to bridge the gap and finally land the player they’ve admired for some time.

Forest, led by Evangelos Marinakis, have made it clear that they see no reason to lower their stance. Financially secure and under no pressure to sell for Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) compliance, the East Midlands side is in a strong position.

Marinakis believes that Elanga’s value matches his impact and potential, especially after the forward delivered his most productive season to date. With no need for a sale and a player under contract, Forest have shown little interest in compromising unless the full valuation is met.

Yet, Newcastle believe the deal remains possible. According to sources cited by The i, talks between the two clubs have continued behind the scenes, suggesting a mutual interest in reaching an agreement.

The latest reports imply that the situation is more nuanced than straightforward rejections of lowball offers. One source noted that “it’s not as simple as bids being rejected,” which hints at a dialogue that may eventually lead to common ground.

This continued engagement signals that Newcastle haven’t hit a dead end, even if the formal bids remain under Forest’s threshold.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Elanga is not a recent development. Their interest dates back to August 2024, when the club considered making a move for the former Manchester United winger.

At that time, they reportedly valued him at around £35 million, a figure that proved too low and now looks even more out of step given Elanga’s form over the past season.

With the player enjoying a breakout campaign—featuring goals, assists, and impressive all-around performances—it’s no surprise that Forest are playing hardball with his valuation.

What complicates things for Newcastle is their unresolved issue on the right wing. Despite the passage of time and several transfer windows, the Magpies have yet to secure a long-term solution for that position.

The fact that they have returned for Elanga this summer reinforces the idea that the 22-year-old is seen internally as a perfect fit for their style and needs.

His pace, ability to beat defenders, and growing consistency in front of goal align with the dynamic, attacking football Eddie Howe is building at St. James’ Park.

For Newcastle, this negotiation is about more than just numbers—it’s about finally resolving a critical weakness in their squad. The willingness to increase their bid from £45 million to £50 million reflects an understanding that Forest won’t be bullied into a sale, and that a more pragmatic approach might ultimately secure the player’s signature.

The club’s recruitment team, led by Andy Howe and Steve Nickson, remains in constant dialogue, not just with Forest, but across the board as they look to strengthen a squad that will be fighting on multiple fronts in the 2025/26 campaign.

While the current bid still falls short of the £60 million price tag, the narrowing gap and active negotiations suggest progress.

Newcastle’s strategy could see them eventually agreeing to a deal structure that includes add-ons or performance-related bonuses, enabling both clubs to walk away satisfied.

Such a compromise would allow Forest to retain their valuation while giving Newcastle the reinforcement they’ve long pursued without blowing their transfer budget in one swoop.

Anthony Elanga represents more than just a target—he embodies a statement of intent. A young, explosive, Premier League-proven winger with a high ceiling, he fits the profile of players Newcastle want to build around as they push toward domestic and European success.

The deal may not be sealed yet, but all signs indicate that Newcastle United are determined to get this one over the line. Whether it ends at the full £60 million mark or is resolved through structured payments, one thing is clear: the Magpies are not giving up anytime soon.