Newcastle United are eyeing summer signing number two after confirming the arrival of Anthony Elanga.
The Swedish winger put pen to paper on a long-term contract last week after the Magpies agreed a £52million plus £3m add-ons deal with Nottingham Forest. It marks the Magpies’ first major signing in two years after navigating through a challenging period under Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Elanga said: "I'm excited, I'm really happy but most importantly I'm ready. I'm ready to put on this black and white top to really fight for this team and give everything for the passionate fanbase that lives and breathes football.
"I had an amazing two years at Nottingham Forest, they really helped me to become the player I am today, but I'm really happy to be here now. The club won a trophy last season and are building something unique, something special that I really want to be part of.
"I really want to buy into the culture, into the DNA of this club. I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started."
Eddie Howe added: "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."
Newcastle are far from finished in this summer’s transfer window, with more signings expected ahead of the Premier League opener away to Aston Villa on Saturday, August 16.
Here’s how Newcastle United could line up at Villa Park - if the latest transfer rumours are true.
Trafford was set to sign for Newcastle last year but the deal was pulled when Nottingham Forest demanded Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of the PSR swindle that took Elliot Anderson to the City Ground. He'll likely cost around £35m this time around.
1. GK: James Trafford
Trafford was set to sign for Newcastle last year but the deal was pulled when Nottingham Forest demanded Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of the PSR swindle that took Elliot Anderson to the City Ground. He'll likely cost around £35m this time around. | Getty Images
Fabrizio Romano continues to drum up Manchester City’s interest in Livramento but the 22-year-old is going nowhere. Too important and, even by Man City’s standards, too expensive.
2. RB: Tino Livramento
Fabrizio Romano continues to drum up Manchester City’s interest in Livramento but the 22-year-old is going nowhere. Too important and, even by Man City’s standards, too expensive. | Getty Images
Newcastle are reportedly exploring a £35million deal for the Marseille captain. The 26-year-old Argentine has made 167 appearances for the French outfit.
3. CB: Leonardo Balerdi
Newcastle are reportedly exploring a £35million deal for the Marseille captain. The 26-year-old Argentine has made 167 appearances for the French outfit. | AFP via Getty Images
Botman was instrumental during his first season at St James’ Park but the last two have been dominated by knee issues. If Botman can put those troubles behind him then there’s no doubt he walks into Howe’s best XI.
4. CB: Sven Botman
Botman was instrumental during his first season at St James’ Park but the last two have been dominated by knee issues. If Botman can put those troubles behind him then there’s no doubt he walks into Howe’s best XI. | Getty Images