‘He Want to Move’: Newcastle United’s Pursuit of quick-lighting star Hits Roadblock as Club Stand Firm

Newcastle United’s ambitious summer rebuild has encountered its first major hurdle as Nottingham Forest rejected a £40 million bid for dynamic winger Anthony Elanga. The Swedish international has emerged as a prime target for Eddie Howe’s side, but Forest’s £50 million valuation has created a significant gap in negotiations.

This transfer tussle comes at a crucial time for the Magpies, who are looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of their return to European competition.

The need for reinforcements on the right flank has become increasingly apparent for Newcastle. While Jacob Murphy enjoyed a surprisingly productive season, his performances have historically been inconsistent, and at 30 years old, he can’t be viewed as a long-term solution.

Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes offer quality on the left side, but the right wing remains an area requiring urgent attention. Elanga’s potential arrival would address this imbalance while adding a new dimension to Newcastle’s attack with his blistering pace and tactical versatility.

Elanga’s credentials make him an attractive proposition for any top Premier League side. The 22-year-old started every league match for Forest last season, demonstrating both durability and consistent performance levels.

His statistical output reveals a player who contributes across multiple attacking metrics while still having room for growth under the right coaching.

Anthony Elanga’s 2023/24 Premier League Performance

What makes Elanga particularly appealing to Newcastle is his stylistic profile. Often compared to PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé for his explosive acceleration and direct running, the Swedish international would give Howe’s side a different attacking option, especially in transition moments where Newcastle have been devastating under the current regime.

His ability to operate across the entire frontline adds valuable tactical flexibility that could prove crucial during a demanding campaign featuring European commitments.

However, this potential transfer carries wider implications for Newcastle’s squad planning. The strong interest in Elanga coincides with growing speculation surrounding Anthony Gordon’s future.

Liverpool’s reported pursuit of the England winger has gained momentum in recent days, with suggestions that Gordon himself would welcome a move to Anfield.

While Newcastle remain determined to keep their Player of the Season, a substantial offer could force them to reconsider – making their pursuit of Elanga appear increasingly like succession planning.

Forest’s firm stance presents Newcastle with a dilemma. The £10 million gap between their initial bid and Forest’s valuation is significant, especially considering Financial Fair Play constraints.

Newcastle’s hierarchy must now decide whether to meet the asking price, structure a deal with performance-related add-ons, or explore alternative targets.

With Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise also on their radar, the Magpies have options, but Elanga’s Premier League experience and proven adaptability make him a particularly appealing candidate.

As negotiations continue behind the scenes, this transfer saga promises to be one of the more intriguing subplots of Newcastle’s summer.

Securing Elanga’s signature would represent a statement of intent as they prepare for Champions League football, but Forest’s resistance means the Magpies may need to dig deep – both financially and diplomatically – to land their man.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle’s interest translates into a improved offer that meets Forest’s demands, or if they’ll be forced to turn their attention elsewhere in their quest to strengthen Howe’s attacking options.