Newcastle United have officially completed the high-profile signing of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth up to £55 million. The Swedish international becomes Newcastle’s second attacking signing of the summer, joining the Magpies in what is expected to be a pivotal addition ahead of their Champions League campaign.
The total transfer includes a fixed fee of £52 million, with an extra £3 million in performance-based add-ons. It’s a statement of intent by Eddie Howe’s side—recruiting one of the most explosive attackers in the Premier League.
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Elanga’s Impact at Nottingham Forest: Stats That Speak Volumes
At just 23 years old, Elanga’s growth has been meteoric. In the 2024–25 Premier League season, he:
- Scored 6 goals
- Provided 11 assists
- Featured in all 38 Premier League games
- Played a crucial role in Forest’s qualification for European football
Elanga’s durability and pace made him one of the most feared players in transition. According to Premier League stats, he registered seven of the 20 fastest sprints during the season—no other player appeared on the list more than once. Even Micky van de Ven, who clocked the fastest individual sprint, couldn’t match Elanga’s repeated explosiveness.
Elanga: “Ready to Fight for This Team and Fanbase”
Upon sealing the transfer, Elanga told Newcastle’s official website: “I’m ready to put on this black-and-white top to really fight for this team and give everything for the passionate fanbase that lives and breathes football.”
“I had an amazing two years at Nottingham Forest, they really helped me to become the player I am today, but I’m really happy to be here now. The club won a trophy last season and are building something unique, something special that I really want to be part of.”
His words reflect a player not only hungry for silverware but ready to thrive under the pressure of a passionate footballing city and the highest European stage.
Why Newcastle Signed Elanga: Speed, Endurance, and End Product
Beyond Speed: The Complete Package
Under Nuno Espirito Santo, Elanga added layers to his game. He became far more than just a counter-attacking weapon. His final-third decision-making, link-up play, and creative passing developed dramatically. Across all competitions last season, Elanga registered 18 goal contributions in 43 appearances, adding depth to Forest’s attack and proving he could deliver against any opposition.
Personal Drive and Discipline
Much of Elanga’s progress can be traced back to his pre-season commitment, training with renowned strength coach Tom Joyce. His personal training sessions were intense, driven by a clear ambition to elevate his game—and he did just that.
Elanga has effectively become the face of Forest’s evolution, and now, he’s set to join a team fighting for the Premier League’s top four and gunning for a deep Champions League run.
Howe’s Praise and Tactical Vision
Manager Eddie Howe is known to favor high-intensity pressing systems and smart transitional play—both areas where Elanga thrives. “Elanga is an exciting talent with attributes that make him a unique attacking threat. His pace, energy, and ability to create and score goals will strengthen us and complement the way we want to play.”
With Callum Wilson’s departure, Elanga’s versatility on the wings or in a central support role will be crucial, especially alongside Alexander Isak, another Swedish star.
Transfer Details and Profit for Manchester United
Elanga’s rise has also benefitted his former club, Manchester United, who inserted a 15–20% sell-on clause when they sold him to Forest in 2023 for £15 million.
As a result, United will reportedly pocket between £6–8 million from this latest transfer, depending on the final structure and Forest’s profit.
Newcastle’s Summer Plans: Not Done Yet
The Elanga signing follows the capture of Spanish winger Antonio Cordero from Malaga on a free transfer, though the 18-year-old is expected to go out on loan to gain experience.
Transfer targets still in play:
- Goalkeeper: Newcastle are in talks with Burnley’s James Trafford.
- Striker: With Wilson gone, a new centre-forward is being prioritized.
- Right-sided defender: Also on the list to provide depth and balance.
Should they succeed in completing these deals, it would cap off an impressive summer window for the Magpies.
Transfer Overview: Anthony Elanga to Newcastle
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Anthony Elanga |
| Age | 23 |
| Nationality | Sweden |
| From | Nottingham Forest |
| To | Newcastle United |
| Transfer Fee | £52M + £3M in add-ons (Total £55M) |
| Premier League 24–25 | 6 goals, 11 assists |
| All Competitions | 18 goal contributions in 43 matches |
| Manchester United Fee | £6–8M from sell-on clause |
| Other Signings | Antonio Cordero (Free, Malaga) |
FAQs
How much did Anthony Elanga cost Newcastle?
Newcastle paid £52 million upfront with £3 million in performance-based add-ons, totaling £55 million.
What did Elanga say after joining Newcastle?
He said he’s ready to fight for the club and fans and called the Newcastle project “special and unique.”
Will Manchester United benefit financially from the transfer?
Yes, they are set to receive £6–8 million due to a sell-on clause negotiated with Forest in 2023.
What position does Elanga play?
He primarily plays as a winger but is also effective as a support striker or second forward in counter-attacking systems.
Who else are Newcastle targeting this summer?
They are in talks for goalkeeper James Trafford, and are eyeing a new striker and right-sided defender.
