Newcastle United corner flag
Image Credits: Getty Images
Manchester United’s summer rebuild under Ruben Amorim is beginning to take shape, but it’s a player no longer on their books who has stolen headlines across the Premier League this week.
While United weigh up deals for Bryan Mbeumo and Ederson, one of their former academy stars has just sealed a high-profile move that could come back to haunt them.
INEOS’ transfer focus has prioritised smart spending and long-term value, but this latest move has sparked fresh debate about whether the club was too quick to cut ties with a rising talent.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
With Champions League football returning to St James’ Park, Newcastle United have now officially announced the signing of Sweden international Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest in a blockbuster £55 million deal.
The 23-year-old left Manchester United just two years ago for £15 million, but a stellar campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo has seen his value soar.
Anthony Elanga recorded six goals and 11 assists last season, playing a crucial role in Forest’s impressive seventh-place finish and European qualification.
Newcastle confirmed the deal in an official statement, reading: “Newcastle United have completed the signing of winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest on a long-term deal.”
Newcastle United Head Coach, Eddie Howe, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Anthony to Newcastle United. He has been a key target for us so I’m delighted to secure him at this early part of pre-season.
“He 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.
“Anthony is hungry to develop even further with us and to achieve success here, and we’re all looking forward to working with him.”
The Swede has signed a long-term deal and is expected to slot straight into the Magpies’ Champions League squad.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Elanga’s metrics from last season have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top wingers.
His average of 6.65 crosses per 90 minutes outstrips every wide player currently at Newcastle, and his efficiency in front of goal was ranked among the best in his position.
Some Manchester United fans would have welcomed a return for Elanga, particularly given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the futures of Jadon Sancho, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Marcus Rashford.
Nottingham Forest, who initially hoped to keep Elanga, were ultimately swayed by the fee.
The winger did not push for an exit, but the lure of Champions League football and a key role under Howe proved decisive.
With Elanga now officially unveiled in black and white, the question is whether United let a future star slip through their fingers — and whether they’ll be made to pay for it when they face Newcastle next season.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!