Anthony Elanga looks set to become Newcastle United's first major signing since 2023
Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga
Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga
Newcastle United are now at an advanced stage of talks with Nottingham Forest for Anthony Elanga.
Chronicle Live reported first that Newcastle had lodged around £55m bid six days ago and the loose ends of the transfer have now been resolved. With the fee agreed and personal terms not believed to be an issue, a medical will now be scheduled and the player could join Newcastle as early as the end of the week.
United began pre-season training without any new faces on board today but the Elanga deal looks to be the first major breakthrough of the summer after patiently getting a deal thrashed out.
Indeed, Forest were not keen on selling Elanga but once the player had expressed an interest in leaving the City Ground it was felt that the ex-Man United man's head had been turned somewhat.
It is the lure of working with Eddie Howe and teaming up with Alexander Isak that appears to have swung the deal in Newcastle's favour.
After three barren windows there is a mixture of relief and joy within the fanbase - and not least in the boardroom at St James' Park.
Elanga will represent a deal that will be celebrated by supporters with the speedy right winger an excellent addition to United's squad for next season's Champions League and domestic challenge.
There is the small matter of 20% set to be paid to Manchester United via the funds Forest will pick up for a big sale but a long-term contract is on the table for Elanga at Newcastle now and Toon chiefs are keen to get the deal completed.
The hope is now that Newcastle can add James Trafford to their ranks from Burnley but the England stopper was training with the Clarets on Monday.
Elanga is currently training Portugal and does not look likely to hook up with Forest this week.
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