Just when Newcastle United thought they might land one of the Premier League’s rising stars, Nottingham Forest slammed the door shut.
The Magpies reportedly made a £45 million bid for Anthony Elanga—but Forest weren’t having it.
And from what’s being said behind the scenes, they’re not about to change their minds easily.
Forest Say “No Thanks” to £45 Million Offer
The offer was submitted on Tuesday morning, and Forest’s response was swift and firm.
According to sources close to the club, they flat-out rejected Newcastle’s approach and aren’t planning to sell their star winger—at least not any time soon.
Elanga has become a central figure in Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, helping Forest secure a 7th-place finish and a spot in European competition for the first time since the 1995-96 season.
Newcastle Might Come Back with More
Even though the initial bid didn’t get anywhere, Newcastle haven’t given up just yet.
The club is reportedly considering whether to increase their offer or start looking elsewhere.
It’s not the first time they’ve shown interest, either.
Mail Sport reported earlier this month that Newcastle had made contact again after a failed attempt last summer.
But make no mistake—Forest value Elanga highly.
With three years left on his contract and impressive stats—six goals and 12 assists last season—they’re unlikely to let him go for less than £50 million or more.
A Perfect Fit for Newcastle’s Attack
Elanga checks a lot of boxes for Eddie Howe.
He’s a natural right-winger, but his ability to play across the front line makes him a flexible option—something Newcastle are prioritizing in this window.
Then there’s his speed. Fans still remember his blistering 85-metre sprint in just nine seconds to score a winner against Manchester United.
That moment cemented his reputation as one of the quickest players in the league.
From Manchester United to Forest Breakout Star
Elanga’s journey began at Manchester United, where he came through the youth ranks and made it to the first team.
But after falling out of favor under Erik ten Hag, he decided it was time to move on.
Speaking to Mail Sport back in 2023, Elanga opened up about that decision:
“It wasn’t easy to leave United—I had been there for nine years.
But I had to think about my own future.
Did I want to stay and sit on the bench, or become a starter at a club that’s improving and on the rise?”
That bold move to Forest, in a £15 million transfer, has clearly paid off.
Two Very Different European Paths
If Elanga stays with Forest, he’ll get to enjoy Europa Conference League football—a big moment for the club.
But if he does decide to switch, Champions League football with Newcastle would be on the table.
The Magpies have now qualified for the Champions League twice in three seasons, and players inside the club believe they’re here to stay.
Wilson Confident in Newcastle’s European Journey
Speaking to Mail Sport at DAZN’s Club World Cup event, Newcastle striker Callum Wilson weighed in on the club’s current status in Europe.
“The club feel like they belong there,” he said.
“They deserve to be there, and have the right to play on that stage.
We saw Villa do really well in Europe last season, and it’s exciting times ahead.”
That kind of belief shows why Newcastle are chasing top talent—and why they see someone like Anthony Elanga as a key piece in their push to stay among Europe’s elite.