Newcastle set to bid £50m for “electric” Elanga alternative, he’d be the next Ben Arfa

Newcastle United are preparing for their return to the Champions League with a determined approach to squad building, learning valuable lessons from the injury-riddled campaign they endured the last time they were involved in European competition.

Eddie Howe, backed by the club’s ambitious Saudi ownership, is keen to ensure depth and quality across all positions to navigate the intense fixture schedule ahead.

With Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford seemingly set to arrive for £40 million, likely replacing Nick Pope as the new number one, attention now turns to the other end of the pitch—where attacking reinforcements are firmly on the agenda.

One of Newcastle’s primary targets this summer has been Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Magpies tabled a £45 million bid, which Forest rejected.

Daniel Storey, speaking on the Totally Football Show, revealed that Newcastle had even offered £5 million more last summer, but Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis sees the Swedish international as a highly valuable asset and is believed to be holding out for closer to £60 million.

Elanga’s breakthrough season in the Premier League has only strengthened Forest’s position, and it appears unlikely that Newcastle will meet their demands.

With Elanga’s price tag proving to be a significant hurdle, the Magpies are reportedly shifting their focus to Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United.

Football Transfers’ Steve Kay claims that Newcastle are preparing a £50 million offer for the Ghanaian attacker, whom Howe views as a top priority amid uncertainty surrounding Kudus’ future in East London.

According to The Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg and Will Unwin, Kudus has an £85 million release clause in his contract. However, West Ham’s need to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules could see them accept a figure closer to £60 million, despite rival interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

Since arriving from Ajax for £37 million, Kudus has made a big impact in the Premier League. Over two seasons with West Ham, he has scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists in 80 appearances.

His performances have earned high praise from pundits and analysts alike. Dan Woffenden has called him “electric,” while Ben Mattinson of Breaking the Lines described him as an “explosive, skilful player” with an exceptional burst of acceleration.

Adam Scully of Total Football Analysis added that Kudus’ standout ability lies in his dribbling, supported by his low center of gravity and flair in one-on-one scenarios.

The data from the Premier League backs up these observations. Kudus has consistently ranked as the most prolific dribbler in the league, attempting more take-ons than any other player in both of his seasons in England.

Premier League – Most Attempted Take-Ons

Statistics courtesy of FBref.com

Kudus’ dribbling volume and consistency mark him as one of the league’s most dangerous wide players. His direct, fearless approach evokes memories of former Newcastle fan-favorite Hatem Ben Arfa, whose moments of brilliance on Tyneside remain iconic.

Ben Arfa, known for his silky touch, dazzling dribbles, and magical solo goals, often left defenders chasing shadows. One goal against Bolton Wanderers in April 2012 still lives in Newcastle folklore, not because of its difficulty, but for the artistry with which it was executed.

Much like Ben Arfa, Kudus is a left-footed attacker who can operate either centrally or on the flanks. Both have displayed flashes of genius capable of changing a game in an instant, though they’ve also faced scrutiny for inconsistency.

That said, if Newcastle do manage to land Kudus, they would be adding a player who not only offers flair and attacking firepower, but also brings versatility, energy, and star potential.

With Elanga looking increasingly out of reach due to Forest’s valuation, Newcastle may find that turning their attention to Kudus represents not only a smarter financial move but a better fit in terms of playing style and overall impact.

His ability to excite fans, break defensive lines, and create moments of individual brilliance would make him a natural fit at St James’ Park—just the kind of player to light up Champions League nights and energize the Toon Army.