According talkSPORT transfer expert Alex Crook, Newcastle United are exploring a late move for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga.
Newcastle United are looking to get some late deals done in the final hours of Deadline Day, something Eddie Howe confirmed during his pre-match press conference ahead of their Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Magpies boss told the media this morning:
“There is still work going on to try to see what we can do in the last few hours of the window. So while there is time, there is hope.”
“We won’t be closed right until the end in both ways [in or out], maybe one or two of the younger players going on out. We are looking for loans for two or three of those so let’s see what happens in the last few hours.”
It has been confirmed by Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner that Newcastle’s number one target this summer, Marc Guehi, will remain with the Eagles for the season ahead, which has left Newcastle scrambling in the dying hours of the summer transfer window.
Although a centre-back and goalkeeper signing has been widely reported as the highest priority for the North East outfit, talkSPORT transfer expert Alex Crook has now dropped a bombshell, that he claims is a “big-money” move that is on course to be quickly completed.
Taking to X this afternoon, Crook revealed:
“#NUFC are exploring a big-money for #NFFC winged Anthony Elanga. More on @talkSPORT shortly.”
“Told this one is developing quickly and likely to be done.”
Should Newcastle sign Anthony Elanga?
There is no doubt that new additions are much-needed in the Newcastle squad, especially after an unconvincing start to the season, but should a winger be on the top of Howe’s Deadline Day shopping list?
The former Manchester United star is experienced and capable across the forward line, but is mostly recently found on the right wing where he spent last season helping Nottingham Forest retain their Premier League status.
Over 36 Premier League appearances last season, the Swedish 22-year-old scored five goals, registered nine assists and created a whopping 14 big chances, as well averaging 1.5 shots on goal per game, as per SofaScore.
In comparison to Elanga’s 14 league goal contributions, Newcastle right winger’s Miguel Almiron (4) and Jacob Murphy (10) only managed to match his output combined.
Not only is Elanga held in high regard for his creativity, eye for goal-scoring opportunities and work ethic on the right flank, he is also a compatriot of his potential forward line partner Alexander Isak, who he has played with eight times on the international stage before.
With that being said, it’s not the centre-back signing Newcastle fans would have hoped for this summer, but would definitely add depth and quality to their right wing role and provokes huge potential to see more goal contributions from the wider forward position.
