Newcastle United have already identified a number of back up options in their pursuit of a new winger, as it looks unlikely we’ll be able to sign Anthony Elanga this summer.
Earlier on Tuesday afternoon, Nottingham Forest rejected a £45m from us for the Swede’s services, after much speculation that one of him or Joao Pedro would be our first big signing of the window.
But according to Sky Sport’s Keith Downie, there are three other names to keep an eye out on over the coming weeks as our search continues.
These includes players with strong Champions League experience, and a Premier League rival…
Sky Sports’ Keith Downie has revealed that Karim Adeyemi, Johan Bakayoko and Mohammed Kudus are three options currently being “explored” on Tyneside if a move for Anthony Elanga proves too expensive.
Adeyemi, currently enjoying life at Borussia Dortmund, is on Club World Cup duty with Niko Kovac’s side, but faces an uncertain future in Germany amidst much speculation over a potential departure.
West Ham’s Kudus meanwhile has endured a season to forget in East London, having fallen out with previous boss Julen Lopetegui and struggling for goals and assists in Graham Potter.
PSV’s Johan Bakayoko would be by far the most affordable option, and we’ve previously been linked with a move for the young Belgian.
Whilst we are still exploring fresh options, Downie reaffirms that our interest in Anthony Elanga isn’t over just yet, despite Forest seemingly adamant that he is not for sale.
Downie writes “They haven’t given up hope of signing Elanga, and considering whether to make a second bid.”
Only Kudus can match the much-sought after Premier League experience Eddie Howe is wanting in his dream signings, so it’s not surprise to see why we’re still interested in a move.
Hopefully, our £45m was just a ‘lowball’ offer, and we may return to the table with a revised offer and potential bonuses to secure a player who would be a perfect fit for our current squad and ambitions.