Newcastle United’s summer rebuild has hit a major obstacle following a fresh transfer update on Tyneside.
According to journalist Sebastien Vidal, rivals Nottingham Forest have rejected a £40m [$54m] bid from Newcastle for winger Anthony Elanga as the Magpies seek reinforcements ahead of their UEFA Champions League campaign.
Eddie Howe is keen to add a new option to the right-side of his attack, with Jacob Murphy, showing signs of age, despite a solid 2024/25 campaign. Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon are natural fits on the left-side, which has left the right flank thin on options.
Elanga is seen as a long-term solution to the question, with the Swedish international showing his versatility, pace and strong transition play at Forest, which are the key traits for a high-pressing Newcastle side.
Mulitple sources have suggested the winger is open to a transfer move, but Forest will demand around £50m [$68m] to let their start performer leave.
Elanga scored six goals and laid 12 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions last season.
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Newcastle remain in Elanga transfer race
Newcastle’s pursuit of Elanga is not new, with the Magpies seeing a £35m [$48m] offer turned down by the Forest last summer, but Howe’s admiration hasn’t faded.
Elanga’s performance were vital in helping the Garibaldis finish seventh and securing UEFA Conference League qualification, and his value has only risen, with interest from European sides.
The lure of UCL football returning to St. James’ Park next season will help Howe in the summer market but Forest are wary over allowing their impressive squad being dismantled.
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