The transfer window rocked the Premier League today after Newcastle United officially made the major-money £55 million capture of Swedish winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest. The 23‑year‑old has signed a long-term deal, which is Newcastle's ambitious plan under manager Eddie Howe, and clears the way for drastic alterations on Tyneside.
/*Deal Details and Player Profile*/
A Swedish global, Elanga netted six goals and 11 assists in 38 Premier League games last term as Forest secured a European place. Newcastle is paying at least £52 million for Elanga, with an additional £3 million based on performance add-ons. The deal also features a sell-on boom. Manchester United will pocket around £5–8 million, under the terms of Elanga's 2023 move to Forest.
/*Motivation Behind the Move*/
Elanga said, “I’m excited, I’m really happy… I’m ready to put on this black and white top to fight for this team and give everything for the passionate fanbase.”. He praised Forest for aiding his growth, yet emphasised Newcastle’s “unique culture and DNA” as the key pull.
Manager Eddie Howe added: "He is a very exciting talent… his speed, drive, and capacity to create and score goals will add strength and depth to us and supplement how we want to play."
/*Background and Strategic Context*/
Elanga's development began with Manchester United, where he progressed from the academy to gain senior experience before his £15 million move to Nottingham Forest in 2023. Under Nuno Espírito Santo at Forest, he was indispensable, playing 74 games in two campaigns and scoring 11 league goals. His versatility, speed, and dead-ball quality helped Forest qualify for the Europa Conference League, a superb achievement considering their previous league standing.
/*Newcastle's Ambitions and Squad Fit*/
The move is Newcastle's second big-name summer signing, following Spain's Antonio Cordero on a free transfer. It is a key part of their strategy to move up into Champions League challengers.
Elanga’s arrival is expected to complement fellow Swede Alexander Isak and inject pace into Howe’s attacking scheme. With his renowned counter-attacking speed among the fastest recorded in the Premier League last season, it’s clear why Howe prioritised him early in pre-season.
/*Looking Ahead and Fan Anticipation*/
Elanga is expected to make his debut in Wednesday’s pre-season friendly against Celtic, before Newcastle embark on their tour in Singapore and South Korea.