Nottingham Forest sensation Anthony Elanga joins the list of players who have blossomed after leaving Old Trafford.
The Swedish lightning winger (23) will be Newcastle’s first big signing this summer – the transfer fee is said to be 65 million euros.
Newcastle United have secured Swedish international Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, both clubs confirmed on Friday evening. Elanga will also become the third most expensive Swedish player sale of all time, after Zlatan Ibrahimović (from Inter to Barcelona) and Alexander Isak who will welcome his compatriot with open arms when he lands at the City Ground.
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“I’m excited, I’m very happy, but most importantly I’m ready. I’m ready to put on the black and white shirt to really fight for this team and give everything to the passionate fanbase that lives and breathes football,” Elanga said on Newcastle’s website.
“I had two incredible years at Nottingham Forest, they really helped me become the player I am today, but I’m very happy to be here now. The club won a trophy last season and is building something unique, something special that I really want to be a part of.
“I really want to get into the culture and DNA of this club. I’m very happy to be here and can’t wait to get started.
A few minutes before the signing was announced, Newcastle released a “teaser” on social media. The video showed Elanga’s gaze, and in the background echoed the words: “Welcome to Newcastle, time to become a legend.”
Breakthrough in Forest
Elanga had his definitive breakthrough in Forest’s surprisingly strong season, where the team struggled for a long time at the top of the Premier League and secured European Cup play. The speedy winger accounted for 6 goals and 11 assists throughout the season, and became a key player in the team’s success.
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Reunion with Isaac
At Newcastle, he will be reunited with compatriot Alexander Isak, who just helped the club qualify for the Champions League. The transfer comes as Newcastle have said goodbye to experienced striker Callum Wilson.
Career on the Rise
The 23-year-old started his career at Manchester United, where he made his Premier League debut back in 2021. After struggling for game time at United, he found new life at Nottingham Forest in 2023 – and has now taken another step up in his career with his move to Newcastle.
Elanga is considered a perfect profile for Eddie Howard’s intense style of play, and could be an important piece in the Magpies’ European campaign.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said in a statement:
“I am delighted to welcome Anthony to Newcastle United. He’s been a big target for us, so I’m happy to have secured him so early in the pre-season.
“He is an exciting talent with qualities that make him a unique attacking threat.
Elanga joined Nottingham Forest from Manchester United two years ago. Since then, he has scored 11 goals and provided 21 assists in 82 appearances for Forest.
According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United have a 15 percent sell-off clause that will be activated with the deal. United’s revenue is likely to be somewhere between €6 million and €7 million, depending on the structure of the deal.
Newcastle finished fifth in the Premier League last season, while Nottingham Forest finished seventh.
