The astonishing price Newcastle United must pay to sign Nottingham Forest star this summer

Newcastle United have reignited their interest in Anthony Elanga, the dynamic Swedish winger currently playing for Nottingham Forest.

After initially failing to secure his services last summer due to financial limitations tied to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, the Magpies are now preparing for another attempt—this time, with a significantly higher price tag looming over the potential deal.

Elanga’s value has soared following an impressive season in which he not only found the net six times but also contributed 12 assists, emerging as one of Forest’s most influential attacking players.

Elanga’s consistent performances have not gone unnoticed on Tyneside. Newcastle have made an official enquiry, particularly after their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo hit a dead end, with the Cameroon international reportedly on his way to Manchester United.

Missing out on Mbeumo has sharpened Newcastle’s focus on Elanga, a player whose profile blends pace, creativity, and tactical flexibility. However, securing his signature won’t come cheap.

Last summer, Newcastle’s attempts with offers in the region of £40 million were dismissed. This time, Forest are reportedly holding out for more than £50 million—an astonishing figure that reflects both the player’s growing value and Forest’s reluctance to let him go.

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Unlike last year, when Newcastle were pressed to meet profit and sustainability targets by selling key players like Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest and Yankuba Minteh to Brighton, this summer’s financial picture appears more flexible.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 21: Anthony Elanga of Nottingham Forest during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Nottingham Forest FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 21, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

While last-minute sales were once necessary to avoid sanctions, the club is now operating with slightly more breathing room. That said, meeting Forest’s valuation will still be a serious commitment.

A deal for Elanga could rival the club’s biggest-ever transfers, with only Sandro Tonali and Alexander Isak previously costing the Magpies more than £50 million.

Forest, for their part, are not in a rush to sell. With three years remaining on Elanga’s current contract and no immediate pressure to offload talent for PSR compliance, the club is in a strong negotiating position.

They acquired the winger from Manchester United for £15 million just a year ago, and any deal north of £50 million would represent a substantial profit—an attractive prospect, though not compelling enough to force their hand.

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Elanga’s versatility would be a significant asset for Newcastle. Capable of playing across the front line, he provides options and depth—something the Magpies will need as they navigate the demands of a Premier League season alongside Champions League football.

Moreover, he has already proven himself on the big stage. One of the standout moments of his season came in a match against Manchester United, where he scored a breathtaking solo goal by sprinting the length of the pitch and finishing with clinical precision.

That highlight alone has stirred excitement among the Newcastle fan base, many of whom are eager to see him bring similar magic to St. James’ Park.

However, getting the deal over the line involves more than just admiration. The clock is ticking. With the current transfer window set to close in just three days before briefly reopening on June 16, Newcastle’s decision-makers face a tight timeline.

They will have until 7pm on Monday, September 1, to finalize all transfer activity, and every day counts in negotiating what would be one of the most significant deals of the summer.

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The pursuit of Anthony Elanga underscores Newcastle’s ambition to strengthen their squad not just with talent, but with players already proven in the Premier League.

While the club has explored overseas options in the past, there’s an increased emphasis on bringing in individuals who can make an immediate impact. Elanga fits that mold perfectly. He’s fast, sharp in transition, and committed defensively—qualities that suit Eddie Howe’s high-intensity approach.

Whether Newcastle can convince Forest to part ways with one of their prized assets remains uncertain. But what’s clear is that the Magpies are serious about enhancing their attacking firepower, and Elanga stands near the top of their wishlist.

The next few days will be crucial as negotiations intensify, and should a deal be struck, it would represent a bold statement of intent from a club determined to consolidate its place among Europe’s elite.