Newcastle's Big Bet on Anthony Elanga
The summer transfer window has delivered another major headline: Newcastle United are set to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for a hefty £55 million. That figure doesn't just make Elanga Forest’s priciest sale to date, it also marks Newcastle’s second-most expensive signing in history, just behind Alexander Isak. For a club on the rise since new ownership and a Champions League return, splashing out on Elanga shows they aren’t messing around.
But what makes Elanga worth such serious cash? The answer goes beyond highlight-reel speed or Premier League experience. Newcastle have been searching for a winger who can consistently threaten defenses with raw acceleration, keep cool under pressure, and whip in accurate crosses with both feet. Elanga ticks those boxes. He’s known for tearing down the wing, beating defenders one-on-one, and making intelligent decisions even when the tempo cranks up. Rarely do you see a player so comfortable sprinting at defenders then delivering a killer ball, no matter which side of the pitch he’s on.
What Elanga Brings to Eddie Howe’s Plans
Manager Eddie Howe wants wingers who don’t just hug the touchline, but cut inside, switch flanks, and help press opponents high up the field. Elanga’s versatility is worth its weight in gold. Since joining Forest from Manchester United last year, he’s quietly turned into one of their standout performers, showing composure in final-third decision-making—exactly what Newcastle lacked in key moments last season.
The signing isn’t just about what Elanga brings on his own: it sends a message. Newcastle are investing in youth and pace to compete with the biggest Premier League clubs. With a five-year contract on the table, the club clearly sees Elanga as much more than a short-term fix. He’ll join Isak and others in pre-season, offering Howe more options for how to set up his attack.
This deal is also a big payday for Manchester United. Thanks to a 15% sell-on clause inserted when they sold Elanga to Forest, United get a slice of the profit—an extra financial incentive to develop young talent and let them prove themselves elsewhere before a major move. As for Forest, cashing in at a record price speaks volumes about Elanga’s Premier League transfer value and their ability to polish raw prospects for the big stage.
It’s rare that all parties come away from a transfer satisfied, but this deal looks like one of those times. Elanga’s rapid dribbling and two-footed crossing have Newcastle fans buzzing. Meanwhile, Forest fans get to see their club reinvest a record fee, and United’s youth academy gets extra credit where it’s due. Watch this space—Elanga’s speed, flair, and decision-making are about to get a bigger stage at St James’ Park.