Anthony Elanga revealed what Elliot Anderson told him before agreeing on a move
Newcastle United’s newest signing Anthony Elanga has opened up about the pivotal conversation that convinced him to make the switch to St. James’ Park.
The Swedish winger, who joined from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth £15 million, credits former Magpies academy graduate Elliot Anderson with playing a crucial role in his decision-making process.
Eddie Howe’s persistent search for a right-sided attacker finally reached its conclusion with Elanga’s arrival, addressing a position that has needed reinforcement for several seasons.
While Yankuba Minteh showed promise during his loan spell at Feyenoord, profit and sustainability regulations forced Newcastle to part ways with the young talent.
Jacob Murphy’s impressive form last campaign earned him plaudits, but questions remained about his ability to maintain those standards with the added demands of Champions League football.
Enter Elanga, whose transfer might have stalled without Anderson’s intervention. The Geordie midfielder, who reluctantly departed for Forest last summer due to financial constraints, became an unexpected advocate for his boyhood club during negotiations.
Despite now wearing different colors, Anderson’s passion for Newcastle clearly remains undimmed.
“Elliot didn’t hold back when telling me about the club,” Elanga revealed during a fan event in Singapore. “He kept emphasizing how much the supporters would embrace me and how the environment would help my development.
Coming from someone who grew up in the academy and understands what this club means, that really resonated with me.”
Elanga’s comments highlight the unique bond between Anderson and Newcastle, a connection that survived his £35 million departure last summer.
The local lad received a warm reception when returning with Forest in February, demonstrating the mutual respect between player and fans. Now, Anderson has indirectly repaid that affection by helping secure Elanga’s signature.
The 23-year-old winger arrives at a transformative moment for Newcastle. With Champions League football returning to Tyneside and a revitalized squad taking shape, Elanga could become a key figure in Howe’s system.
His blistering pace and direct style should complement Anthony Gordon on the opposite flank, forming a formidable partnership with Alexander Isak – assuming the Swedish striker remains at the club.
Elanga already has his sights set on a particular fixture that holds special significance for Newcastle supporters.
The December trip to Sunderland marks the first Premier League meeting between the rivals since 2016, and the new signing recognizes the occasion’s importance.
“Everyone’s been telling me about the derby atmosphere,” Elanga admitted. “I thrive in those high-intensity matches where the stakes couldn’t be higher. We’ll be ready to give the fans what they deserve when that day comes.”
His enthusiasm for the challenge reflects the mentality Howe wants throughout his squad. While European nights will capture headlines, maintaining domestic dominance remains crucial for Newcastle’s ambitions.
Elanga’s versatility – capable of playing across the front line – provides Howe with valuable options as he balances multiple competitions.
The transfer also represents a shrewd piece of business for Newcastle. At 23, Elanga possesses both top-flight experience and room for growth, fitting the profile of player Howe has successfully developed in recent years.
His connection with Anderson – forged during their time together at Forest – could translate into immediate on-field chemistry with several teammates.
As preseason preparations intensify, Elanga’s integration will be closely monitored. His adaptation to Howe’s demanding system and the expectations of playing for an ambitious club with passionate supporters will determine how quickly he can make an impact.
Early signs suggest he understands exactly what’s required, thanks in no small part to Anderson’s honest assessment of life at Newcastle.
For Howe and the recruitment team, Elanga’s arrival checks several boxes. They’ve acquired a young, hungry player with point-to-prove mentality, Premier League pedigree, and the physical attributes to thrive in their high-energy system.
Perhaps most importantly, they’ve signed someone who genuinely wants to represent Newcastle United – a quality that can’t be underestimated when building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
As the new season approaches, Elanga’s journey at Newcastle promises to be one of the more intriguing storylines. His decision to join, influenced by a player who had to leave against his wishes, adds a layer of poignancy to the move.
If he can channel even half of Anderson’s passion for the club, the Magpies may have found themselves not just a talented winger, but a player who truly understands what it means to wear the famous black and white stripes.