Exclusive: Newcastle United now ready for £60m star who actually wants to join them this summer

Newcastle United’s pursuit of Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga has hit a significant roadblock, with the two clubs separated by a staggering £15 million in their valuation of the Swedish international.

The Magpies’ initial £45 million bid fell well short of Forest’s demands, forcing Eddie Howe’s recruitment team to carefully consider their next move in what’s becoming an increasingly complex transfer saga.

Reliable sources indicate Forest have set their asking price north of £60 million – a figure that would eclipse Newcastle’s current record transfer paid for Alexander Isak.

Club insiders suggest this valuation appears particularly inflated when comparing Elanga’s career trajectory to his compatriot’s. While the 23-year-old enjoyed a productive season at the City Ground with six goals and eleven assists, questions remain about whether his output justifies such an astronomical fee.

Newcastle’s transfer committee must now weigh several critical factors. Their genuine admiration for Elanga’s explosive pace and work ethic is balanced against concerns about overpaying for a player who only established himself as a Premier League regular last season.

The club’s recent decision to walk away from Bryan Mbeumo when Brentford’s demands exceeded £60 million demonstrates their disciplined approach to the market, despite having identified the Frenchman as their primary attacking target.

The situation presents an intriguing test of Newcastle’s evolving transfer strategy under their Saudi ownership. While financially capable of meeting Forest’s demands, the hierarchy remains determined to avoid being held to ransom in negotiations.

This principled stance has served them well since their early days of reactive spending, evolving into a more sophisticated model focused on value and long-term planning.

Alternative options already under consideration could provide better value in a market where elite attacking talent commands premium prices.

PSV’s Johan Bakayoko offers similar attributes to Elanga at potentially half the cost, while Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi – though less proven in England – boasts Champions League experience and a higher ceiling.

Newcastle’s scouting network has also monitored several other European-based wingers who could provide comparable quality without the Premier League premium.

Elanga’s potential willingness to push for a move remains uncertain. Sources close to the player suggest he’s content at Forest but would welcome the opportunity to join Newcastle’s ambitious project.

However, without concrete pressure from the Swedish international, Forest hold all the negotiating power – especially after securing European football and with no pressing financial need to sell.

Brighton’s João Pedro has emerged as Newcastle’s most likely alternative, with talks reportedly progressing well.

The Brazilian’s versatility across the frontline and proven Premier League pedigree make him an attractive option, though his playing style differs significantly from Elanga’s direct wing play.

This potential pivot demonstrates Newcastle’s preparedness to adapt their targets rather than overpay for specific profiles.

The coming days will reveal whether Newcastle test Forest’s resolve with an improved offer or shift focus entirely to other targets. With Financial Fair Play considerations still paramount, every million committed to the Elanga deal would limit their ability to strengthen other areas.

As preseason preparations loom, the recruitment team must balance their admiration for the player against the cold reality of building a competitive squad within their means – a calculation that currently appears to favor walking away unless Forest dramatically lower their demands.

This transfer standoff serves as another milestone in Newcastle’s maturation as a club no longer willing to pay inflated fees out of desperation.

Their measured approach reflects growing confidence in their scouting network and player development model – traits that will prove crucial as they seek to establish themselves as consistent top-six contenders rather than flashy spenders.

Whether Elanga ultimately joins or not, the negotiation process itself reveals much about Newcastle’s evolving identity in the transfer market.