Newcastle United are looking to improve in several squad areas as the Magpies return to the UEFA Champions League next season.
Eddie Howe understands his side needs need depth and experience to compete across four competitions simultaneously in the 2025/26 campaign.
One of his main focuses is looking to upgrade the right-wing position at St. James’ Park despite Jacob Murphy’s career-best outing in 2024/25.
Howe is keen on elevating the overall quality of the team and feels Nottingham Forest star Anthony Elanga would be an ideal upgrade on the right flank.
As part of a long-running transfer saga, Howe has been linked with the former Manchester United academy graduate, with a rumoured £45m [$61m] bid already rejected.
Newcastle have since submitted a revised offer of £55m [$75m] for the Swedish winger, and that could be decisive, as Forest have set an asking fee of £60m [$82m] for the 23-year-old.
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Amid the chase for Elanga, Newcastle are also considering alternatives if a deal doesn’t materialise and they remain keen on PSV’s Johan Bakayoko, as per reports from Football Insider.
The Belgian is a cheaper option than Elanga, and considering Howe’s long-standing interest, the deal could work as Bakayoko reportedly wants to move to Tyneside.
Who is Newcastle target Johan Bakayoko?
Bakayoko has earned plaudits for his exceptional performances and potential in the 2024/25 campaign after scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in 42 appearances.
🚨 Newcastle would consider a move to sign Johan Bakayoko from PSV if they fail to get a deal over the line for Anthony Elanga.
(Source: Football Insider) pic.twitter.com/WrLDOOtKbd
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 6, 2025
The 22-year-old is predominantly a right winger with a strong left foot. He’s a prolific ball carrier with great technical ability, dribbling and close control.
2023/24 was his best campaign, with 14 goals scored, and he maintained a similar level last season despite injury issues.
The 22-year-old has also represented Belgium 18 times after making his debut in March 2023. He scored his only international goal against Estonia in a Euro 2024 qualifying fixture.
Alongside links to Newcastle, AS Monaco and Borussia Dortmund are also interested in him, so a bidding war could be on the horizon for Howe.
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