Newcastle holding talks over signing “generational” £84m star, he’s better than Elanga
Fresh off their Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification, Newcastle United are wasting no time in strengthening their squad for the challenges ahead. Eddie Howe’s side exceeded expectations last season, but with European football returning to St James’ Park, the Magpies are determined to build on their success.
The club’s recruitment team has already identified key targets, with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi and Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo on their radar.
However, Mbeumo appears destined for Manchester United, forcing Newcastle to explore alternative options for their right-wing vacancy. While Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga has admirers among the Newcastle hierarchy, their attention has turned to West Ham’s dynamic attacker Mohammed Kudus.
Mohammed Kudus vs. Anthony Elanga: Statistical Comparison
| Metric (per game) | Kudus (23/24) | Elanga (24/25) |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 33 (27) | 38 (31) |
| Goals | 8 | 6 |
| Assists | 6 | 11 |
| Shots (on target) | 2.0 (0.5) | 1.2 (0.6) |
| Pass completion | 84% | 78% |
| Big chances created | 5 | 9 |
| Key passes | 0.8 | 1.3 |
| Dribbles | 3.8 | 0.7 |
| Ball recoveries | 6.4 | 2.3 |
| Tackles | 2.0 | 0.5 |
| Duels won | 8.5 | 3.0 |
Data via Sofascore
Kudus endured a relatively quiet 2024/25 campaign by his standards, contributing just five goals and three assists in the Premier League. However, the Ghana international showed signs of returning to form late in the season with four goal involvements in his final eight appearances.
His underlying numbers remain impressive – only Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku completed more successful dribbles in the division last term.
Advanced metrics from FBref highlight Kudus’ elite ball-carrying ability, ranking him among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues for pass completion and the top 3% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes.
These qualities make him an ideal fit for Howe’s high-intensity system, which values direct running and transitional play.
West Ham inserted an £84 million release clause in Kudus’ contract when he joined from Ajax last summer, but Newcastle believe a deal could be struck for around £65 million given the Hammers’ disappointing season under Graham Potter.
While this represents a significant outlay, it may prove better value than the reported £50 million-plus Forest would demand for Elanga – especially considering Kudus’ higher ceiling.
The 23-year-old showcased his world-class potential during his final season at Ajax and early months at West Ham, earning praise as a “generational talent” from African football expert Gary Al-Smith.
His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and contribute defensively would add a new dimension to Newcastle’s attack, providing balance to a frontline that already features Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
Howe has proven adept at revitalizing players’ careers, as evidenced by his work with Joelinton and Miguel Almiron. The Newcastle boss could be the perfect manager to help Kudus rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
With Champions League football offering added appeal, St James’ Park may be the ideal environment for the Ghana star to fulfill his undoubted potential.
As Newcastle prepare for their busiest season in over two decades, securing a player of Kudus’ caliber would send a strong message about their ambitions. While Elanga represents a solid alternative, the Magpies appear ready to back Howe with the quality needed to compete on multiple fronts.
The coming weeks will reveal whether they can convince West Ham to part with their prized asset and beat competition from other interested clubs.