Cover blown – Newcastle United face £50M threat after transfer target goes public
The battle for Anthony Elanga’s signature is heating up this summer, with Arsenal emerging as serious contenders to hijack Newcastle United’s long-standing interest in the Nottingham Forest winger.
The Magpies have identified the Swedish international as their prime target to solve their right-wing dilemma, but now face a formidable challenge from the Gunners in securing the £50 million-rated attacker.
Newcastle’s need for reinforcements on the right flank has become increasingly urgent following Miguel Almiron’s departure to Atlanta United.
Jacob Murphy remains the only natural wide option on that side, leaving Eddie Howe’s squad dangerously thin in a position that demands quality depth – especially with Champions League football returning to St James’ Park.
The club’s recent history with right-wing acquisitions makes for sobering reading; Yankuba Minteh, their only signing in this position since the takeover, was sold to Brighton without ever making an appearance in black and white stripes.
Elanga represents precisely the profile Newcastle crave – a proven Premier League performer entering his prime years at just 23 years old.
His impressive haul of 17 goal contributions last season demonstrated his ability to influence games at the highest level, making Forest’s £50 million valuation appear increasingly reasonable in today’s inflated market.
The winger’s electrifying performance in Nottingham Forest’s stunning Boxing Day victory at St James’ Park – where Newcastle supporters witnessed his devastating pace and direct running firsthand – only strengthened the case for his acquisition.
Mikel Arteta’s decision to enter the race for Elanga adds significant pressure to Newcastle’s pursuit. While the Gunners primarily seek attacking reinforcements at center-forward, their desire for quality cover behind Bukayo Saka makes Elanga an attractive option.
Arsenal can offer the lure of consistent Champions League football and a genuine title challenge, though Elanga would likely face greater competition for minutes given Saka’s undisputed status as first-choice right winger.
Newcastle counter with the promise of a clearer pathway to regular starts and the opportunity to become a cornerstone of their ambitious project.
Howe’s track record of improving attacking players could prove decisive in convincing Elanga that Tyneside represents the ideal environment for his continued development.
The Swede’s diplomatic response to transfer speculation while on international duty – “I focus on what I can control” – suggests he’s keeping his options open as the situation develops.
Financial and Tactical Considerations
The potential £50 million outlay would represent a significant commitment from Newcastle’s hierarchy, testing their willingness to compete with elite clubs for top targets.
However, Elanga’s age, Premier League experience, and room for growth make him a more calculated investment than many alternatives at similar price points.
His versatility to play across the front line adds valuable tactical flexibility for Howe, who values multi-functional attackers in his system.
As negotiations progress in the coming weeks, Newcastle must decide whether to meet Forest’s valuation or explore alternative options.
With Arsenal now in the mix, the Magpies may need to act decisively to secure their man, potentially using their ability to offer more immediate playing time as a key bargaining chip.
One thing is certain – solving their right-wing conundrum will be pivotal to Newcastle’s hopes of making an impact both domestically and in Europe next season.