DEAL CONFIRMED: Anthony Elanga Completes Sensational Move to Newcastle United.
In a major development during the 2025 summer transfer window, Newcastle United have officially confirmed the signing of Swedish international winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest. The highly-rated attacker, known for his blistering pace and direct style, has agreed to a long-term deal with the Magpies, marking another ambitious statement from the Tyneside club as they continue to reinforce their squad for domestic and European challenges ahead.
A Rising Star Finds a New Home
Anthony Elanga, still only 23, has been on the radar of several top clubs since his teenage years at Manchester United, where he first broke into the senior team under then-manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær. Born in Malmö, Sweden, Elanga moved to England at a young age and joined Manchester United’s youth academy in 2014. He quickly made an impression with his dribbling skills, work rate, and ability to take on defenders with ease.
After a few promising years at Old Trafford, Elanga moved to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2023 in search of regular first-team football. His time at the City Ground proved fruitful. In his first season, he notched up 5 goals and 9 assists in all competitions and was a constant threat down the flanks. His performances earned praise from pundits and managers alike, with many tipping him as a future star.
Now, having spent two seasons at Forest, Elanga has earned a move to a club with European ambitions and a growing global profile—Newcastle United.
The Official Announcement
Newcastle United confirmed the signing via their official website and social media channels, unveiling Elanga in the club’s newly released 2025/26 home kit alongside manager Julen Lopetegui, who recently took the helm at St. James’ Park.
“We’re delighted to welcome Anthony Elanga to Newcastle United,” said Lopetegui in the club’s statement. “He is a dynamic winger with electric pace, strong technical ability, and the hunger to grow and achieve. He fits the profile of the player we’re building around—a young talent with top-flight experience and huge potential.”
The transfer fee has not been officially disclosed, but sources close to the deal estimate it to be around £28 million, including performance-related add-ons. The move is considered a smart investment by Newcastle’s sporting director Dan Ashworth, who praised Elanga’s character and professionalism.
“Anthony’s attitude and dedication make him stand out,” Ashworth noted. “He brings both flair and work rate, and we believe he will be a fantastic addition to our forward line. This is a signing not just for now but for the future of the club.”
Elanga’s First Words as a Magpie
Speaking to NUFC TV shortly after signing his contract, Elanga expressed his excitement about joining Newcastle:
“It feels amazing. Newcastle United is a massive club with a big project and ambition. I’ve played at St. James’ Park before and the atmosphere is incredible—I can’t wait to wear the black-and-white shirt and give everything for the fans.”
He continued:
“I had good conversations with the manager and the club, and I felt the belief they have in me. I want to grow as a player, and I think this is the right place for that. I’m excited to meet my new teammates and get started.”
Elanga will wear the number 21 shirt for the 2025/26 season.
Tactical Fit and Role in Lopetegui’s System
Julen Lopetegui is expected to implement a high-intensity, pressing system that relies on wide players who can stretch the opposition and transition quickly from defense to attack. Elanga’s skill set makes him a natural fit.
Able to play on either wing, though primarily operating from the left, Elanga offers pace, directness, and an eye for goal. With Newcastle likely to compete in European competitions next season, squad depth and flexibility will be key—and Elanga adds precisely that.
He joins a forward line that already boasts talents like Alexander Isak, Miguel Almirón, and Harvey Barnes. His arrival could also see greater rotation, as Lopetegui aims to keep his squad fresh across multiple fronts.
Reaction from Fans and Pundits
The reaction to the signing has been overwhelmingly positive from the Newcastle United fanbase, many of whom took to social media to welcome Elanga.
On X (formerly Twitter), one fan wrote:
“Huge signing! Elanga will tear it up with Isak and Almirón. Can’t wait to see him flying down the wing!”
Another supporter posted:
“Smart business from Newcastle. Young, Premier League-proven, and bags of potential. Welcome, Elanga!”
Football pundits have also weighed in, with Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher commenting:
“Elanga is one of those players who has always looked dangerous every time he’s on the pitch. His raw pace is a nightmare for defenders, and I think with the right coaching and regular minutes, he could explode at Newcastle.”
What It Means for Newcastle’s Summer Strategy
This signing is part of a broader strategy by Newcastle United to reinforce their squad with young, dynamic talents. After an injury-hit 2024/25 campaign, the club is determined to build a more balanced and resilient team to compete on all fronts.
Having already secured key signings like João Pedro and tied down stars like Alexander Isak to long-term deals, Elanga’s arrival underscores Newcastle’s intent to push for Champions League qualification and a deep cup run.
Club insiders suggest that more signings are expected before the transfer window closes, with midfield and full-back areas also under consideration for reinforcements.
Elanga’s Career in Numbers (As of July 2025)
- Age: 23
- Nationality: Swedish
- Senior Clubs: Manchester United, Nottingham Forest
- Premier League Appearances: 78
- Goals: 11
- Assists: 14
- International Caps (Sweden): 19
- Goals (International): 3
What’s Next?
Elanga is expected to link up with his new teammates immediately as Newcastle prepare for their pre-season tour in the United States, where they will face clubs such as LA Galaxy, Inter Miami, and Borussia Dortmund.
He could make his unofficial debut during the tour and is likely to feature prominently in the club’s Premier League opener in August.
For Newcastle United, this is another bold step forward in their project under new ownership and management. And for Anthony Elanga, it’s a fresh chapter in a career that continues to ascend. With the right environment and opportunities, he could very well become one of the breakout stars of the upcoming season.
Final Word
In Elanga, Newcastle United have secured more than just a talented footballer—they’ve landed a player with hunger, maturity, and the potential to develop into one of Europe’s top wingers. The deal sends a clear message to rivals and fans alike: the Magpies are not content with past successes—they’re building something lasting.
As the new season looms, all eyes will be on St. James’ Park. And if Anthony Elanga can deliver on the promise he has long shown, Newcastle United might just have pulled off one of the smartest signings of the summer.
