Harvey Barnes decision turns heads as Newcastle United stars get excited about Anthony Elanga move
Anthony Elanga remains fully focused on his future at Nottingham Forest despite growing speculation linking him with a summer move to Newcastle United or Aston Villa.
The £38 million winger has caught the attention of several top Premier League clubs, but Forest have made it clear they consider him a key player and are unwilling to let him go without a fight.
Reports suggesting a potential swap deal involving Newcastle’s Harvey Barnes have been dismissed by sources close to the City Ground, though a substantial offer could force a reconsideration.
Newcastle’s interest in Elanga is no secret, with the Magpies reportedly prepared to spend over £60 million to secure his services.
The Swedish international’s impressive performances last season have made him a sought-after asset, and while Forest currently insist he is not for sale, a massive bid could test their resolve.
Elanga himself has done little to dampen the rumors after a recent social media post featuring him in a Newcastle jersey—albeit accidentally, as it was later revealed to be a Bournemouth shirt due to his friendship with Antoine Semenyo.
The mix-up sparked excitement among Toon fans, with teammates Sven Botman, Will Osula, and Anthony Gordon playfully engaging in the comments, further fueling transfer speculation.
Meanwhile, Harvey Barnes finds himself at the center of his own transfer saga. The Newcastle winger enjoyed a strong second half of the season, netting nine goals and providing five assists after overcoming early injury setbacks.
His contributions have not gone unnoticed, with Aston Villa also reportedly monitoring his situation. While Newcastle have not officially entertained the idea of a swap deal involving Barnes, sources suggest the club could be open to negotiations if the right offer materializes.
For Barnes, the upcoming season presents a crucial opportunity to reignite his international career. Eligible for both England and Scotland, the 26-year-old is eager to use the Champions League stage as a springboard to force his way back into Gareth Southgate’s plans—or alternatively, secure a spot in Steve Clarke’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
His versatility and attacking prowess make him an attractive option for both nations, and a standout campaign with Newcastle could be the key to unlocking his international ambitions.
Eddie Howe has played a pivotal role in Barnes’ development, working closely with the winger to refine his game during periods out of the starting lineup.
The Newcastle manager praised Barnes’ resilience and adaptability, acknowledging the challenges of integrating him into the team’s system early in the season.
“We focused heavily on Harvey’s training and overall development, recognizing his qualities while finding the right balance in the squad,” Howe explained. “It wasn’t always straightforward, but his determination to improve has been evident.”
As the summer transfer window heats up, both Elanga and Barnes face pivotal moments in their careers. Nottingham Forest’s firm stance on Elanga suggests they value him as a cornerstone of their project, but the allure of Champions League football and a bigger platform could prove tempting.
On the other hand, Barnes must weigh his options carefully—whether to stay and fight for his place at Newcastle or explore a fresh challenge elsewhere.
For now, Barnes is preparing for pre-season with Newcastle, eager to build on his progress and make an impact in Europe’s elite competition.
Elanga, meanwhile, remains a Forest player in the eyes of the club, though the coming weeks could bring twists in their respective stories. One thing is certain: the transfer market is unpredictable, and neither player’s future is set in stone.
The weeks ahead will reveal whether Forest can hold onto their prized asset or if Newcastle’s pursuit will culminate in a blockbuster deal.
As for Barnes, his ambitions extend beyond club football, with international recognition firmly in his sights. Whatever happens, both players are poised for defining seasons that could shape the next chapters of their careers.