Anthony Elanga transfer to Newcastle closer with one small hurdle left to clear

Newcastle United are edging ever closer to securing a deal for Anthony Elanga, with optimism growing that a full agreement will be reached over the weekend.

The club has been in detailed negotiations with Nottingham Forest for several days, and although the move isn’t completely finalised, the major obstacle—agreeing on a transfer fee—has largely been resolved.

Newcastle’s £55 million offer has brought them close to Forest’s valuation of the Swedish international, and the final discussions now centre on payment terms and deal structure.

Forest and Newcastle are working on the specifics of how the funds will be distributed over time, and a small adjustment—possibly nudging the fee to around £56–57 million—could be the final nudge that secures the agreement.

While the total value of the deal satisfies Forest’s expectations, both clubs are fine-tuning timelines and instalments to satisfy their respective financial strategies. The remaining steps appear procedural rather than problematic, and sources suggest it is only a matter of time before the deal is rubber-stamped.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are watching the developments with vested interest. The Red Devils included a 15% sell-on clause when they sold Elanga to Forest for £15 million in 2023, and they now stand to receive approximately £6 million, based on the £40 million profit Forest are set to make.

Though not directly involved in the deal, United’s financial windfall adds a layer of intrigue to a transfer that has spanned months in the making.

Personal terms are not expected to be a hurdle for Newcastle. The player is said to be excited about the move, and the presence of fellow Swedes Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth, as well as close friend Will Osula, should ease his transition into Eddie Howe’s squad.

Newcastle believe Elanga’s profile—pace, directness, and pressing energy—fits perfectly into their attacking philosophy, and Howe has made no secret of his admiration for the 23-year-old winger.

Interestingly, talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook revealed that talks between Newcastle and Forest first intensified back in January. At the time, Forest expressed interest in taking Jacob Murphy as part of a potential swap.

Howe, however, immediately vetoed the idea, being a staunch admirer of Murphy’s consistency and work ethic. That decision proved astute as Murphy delivered his most productive season yet, registering nine goals and 14 assists in 41 appearances.

Letting him go mid-season, especially with Miguel Almiron later moving to Atlanta United, would have left Newcastle painfully short on the right wing.

The Elanga deal represents more than just another transfer; it signals a step in Newcastle’s plan to strengthen their squad depth while adding players capable of immediate impact.

Elanga’s arrival will offer flexibility and competition on the flanks, something that proved lacking during periods of injury last season. Newcastle know the demands of domestic and European football require greater rotation, and Elanga’s age and potential make him a sensible addition for both the present and future.

Meanwhile, attention is also turning to other key areas of the squad. Tino Livramento has reportedly attracted serious interest from Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola viewing him as a long-term successor to Kyle Walker.

Newcastle, however, have no intention of selling and have responded by placing a sky-high valuation on the young full-back—reported to be around £80 million. Their stance remains firm: Livramento is not for sale unless an astronomical bid arrives, and even then, Howe would likely resist.

The same determination applies to Alexander Isak, the club’s crown jewel in attack. With some already considering him among the top five strikers in world football, Newcastle are working behind the scenes to extend his contract and fend off any potential suitors.

Isak’s blend of elegance, precision, and finishing ability has made him indispensable, and the club are confident they can build a successful project around him.

With the Elanga deal nearing completion and key players firmly in the club’s plans, Newcastle’s summer is finally taking shape.

A frustrating window marked by setbacks and rejections may now shift into high gear, with a clearer picture emerging of the squad Howe wants to assemble.

If Newcastle can finalise this deal and follow it up with one or two more additions, their ambitions for the upcoming campaign will begin to look not only credible, but formidable.