Newcastle in talks to sign Forest winger Elanga

Newcastle United are in talks with Nottingham Forest over a potential £55m deal to sign winger Anthony Elanga.

While no agreement has been reached yet for the transfer of the 23-year-old Sweden international, sources have told BBC Sport negotiations are progressing positively, with both clubs open to a deal.

While Forest have indicated £55m is the fee they are seeking for Elanga, Newcastle have declined to comment on that valuation.

Forest are believed to have paid £15m to sign Elanga from Manchester United on a five-year-deal in 2023.

He had joined the Old Trafford outfit at the age of 12 and made 55 appearances before moving to Nottingham.

Elanga scored six goals and created 11 assists for Nuno Espirito Santo's side during the 2024-25 Premier League season.

Newcastle are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer as they prepare for a Champions League return following a fifth-placed finish last season.

Newcastle's pursuit of Elanga underlines just how far his stock has risen after a stellar campaign with Forest.

His statistical profile paints the picture of a player not just improving, but excelling in some of the most important attacking metrics.

The radar chart below, provided by Opta via FBref, shows Elanga ranking in the top percentiles among Premier League attacking midfielders and wingers across multiple categories.

Being in the 80th percentile for goal-creating actions means he outperforms 80% of similar players in that key attacking measure. His high percentile for shots-on-target percentage also highlights not just an eye for goal but efficiency in making goalkeepers work. He doesn't waste chances.

Elanga's crossing ability sits near the top of the scale, a vital asset for any team relying on width and delivery. For comparison, none of Newcastle's current wingers - Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes or Anthony Gordon - averages more than 4.85 crosses per 90 minutes, while Elanga averages 6.65.

His progressive carries - how frequently he moves the ball towards goal - highlight his directness and willingness to take on defenders, adding dynamism to Forest's attack. Even his goals per shot ratio reflects a sharpness in front of goal that is increasingly rare among wingers.

For Newcastle, these numbers represent everything they need: pace, efficiency, and creativity in the final third. Their recent transfer frustration stems from failing to make these kinds of decisive moves early. Elanga, who can play wide or centrally, fits the profile of a player who could unlock defences both at home and in Europe.