Anthony Gordon and Sven Botman respond as £55m target posts picture involving a Newcastle shirt

The transfer rumor mill has gone into overdrive after Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga sent Newcastle United fans into a frenzy with a subtle social media post that prompted responses from Magpies stars Anthony Gordon and Sven Botman.

The 23-year-old Swedish international, who enjoyed a breakout season at the City Ground, appears to be at the center of Newcastle’s summer recruitment plans as Eddie Howe looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of their Champions League campaign.

Elanga’s Instagram post featuring a friend wearing a Newcastle shirt – accompanied by playful comments from Gordon (“Yallaaa”) and Botman (“Mykooo”) – has fueled speculation that the former Manchester United prospect could be Tyneside-bound.

This social media interaction comes at a pivotal moment, with Newcastle reportedly preparing a substantial bid for the electrifying winger after being rebuffed in their 2024 deadline day approach.

The Magpies’ interest makes perfect tactical sense. Having sold both Yankuba Minteh and Miguel Almirón to balance the books, Newcastle desperately need reinforcements on the right flank.

Elanga’s blistering pace (clocked at 36.2 km/h last season) and improved end product (8 goals, 11 assists in all competitions) would provide the perfect complement to Alexander Isak’s central threat.

Their existing chemistry from Sweden national team duty suggests this partnership could flourish immediately at club level.

Financial considerations add intrigue to the potential deal. While Howe values Elanga around £35 million, Forest’s £55 million asking price reflects his importance to their historic European qualification.

However, with Nottingham Forest needing to sell at least one marquee player to comply with financial regulations, Newcastle may find room for negotiation.

Chris Wood’s glowing endorsement of his former teammate – “he’s got everything you want in a modern winger” – only strengthens the case for the Magpies to push hard for his signature.

Elanga’s development under Nuno Espírito Santo has been remarkable. The once-raw talent has transformed into a complete wide attacker, averaging 2.3 key passes and 1.7 successful dribbles per game last season.

His ability to stretch defenses would give Howe’s side an added dimension against packed backlines in both Premier League and European competition.

As Newcastle’s stars engage in this very public courtship, the club’s hierarchy faces a critical decision. Should they meet Forest’s valuation for a player who could elevate their attack for years to come, or pursue more cost-effective alternatives?

With pre-season approaching and Champions League football on the horizon, Elanga represents precisely the caliber of signing that could help Newcastle establish themselves among England’s elite.

The social media chatter suggests the player himself might be open to the move – now it’s over to the negotiators to make it happen.