Anthony Elanga’s move to Newcastle United has been officially announced, leading to plenty of his former Nottingham Forest teammates reacting on social media.
Newcastle agreed a fee for Elanga worth in the region of £55m, with add-ons included that could take the price closer to £60m.
Reacting to the fee, Forest fans had mixed feelings about selling Elanga given the opportunity to reinvest the significant profit made on the sale, but this was all before Morgan Gibbs-White’s move to Tottenham surfaced.
Newcastle eventually announced Elanga’s arrival on Friday evening, with the Swede subsequently posting a heartfelt farewell message to Forest fans.
Anthony Elanga acknowledges the fans during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Nottingham Forest
Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images
Anthony Elanga says goodbye to Nottingham Forest
In terms of his replacement, Nottingham Forest News revealed that Forest are progressing in talks to sign Johan Bakayoko, a player who would provide similar strengths as Elanga.
His departure will still hurt Reds fans, regardless of whoever succeeds him, with Elanga now reflecting on his time at the City Ground through an Instagram post.
He said: “Big love to my teammates, coaches & all the backroom staff, and to the City Ground faithful. You all made it special. I’ll never forget that feeling of walking out to your energy.”
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Nuno Espírito Santo will have to work incredibly hard to reproduce Elanga’s 18 goal contributions from last season, with current members of the Forest squad needing to step up as well as any new signings.
Off the pitch, though, it’s clear what a big character Elanga was within the squad, based on how his former teammates have reacted to the news.
Callum Hudson-Odoi reacts to Anthony Elanga’s departure
Newcastle stars William Osula and Alexander Isak will be delighted to welcome Elanga to St James’ Park, given their established friendship with the former Forest man.
His friendships within the Forest squad are also strong, though, highlighted by the mix of sadness and well wishes from the likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Welcome to Newcastle, Anthony! ⚡️
We have completed the signing of winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest on a long-term deal. pic.twitter.com/AkLUEPE5Qg
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 11, 2025
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Hudson-Odoi said on Instagram: “Good luck my brother, been a pleasure. Keep doing your thing and God bless you.”
Former Newcastle man Elliot Anderson also chimed in, saying: “All the best, brother,” while Ola Aina simply replied with a broken heart emoji.
The reaction speaks to the strong bond present within the Forest squad, something that will have to be protected with any incoming signings.