Alarming Twist Emerges in Anthony Elanga to Newcastle Deal – Despite ‘Close’ Agreement

Newcastle United are nearing a deal to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, but the transfer is still not officially sealed. There was growing optimism last week when reports emerged that the Magpies had submitted a £55 million bid for the Swedish winger. With personal terms also reportedly close to being agreed, it appeared Elanga was on the verge of becoming Eddie Howe’s first marquee signing since 2023.

Despite that optimism, the start of the new week has brought no new arrivals at St James’ Park. The delay in finalising the deal has sparked concern among Newcastle fans, many of whom are anxious that this promising move might fall through at the last hurdle.

Craig Hope of the Daily Mail has added to the uncertainty by describing the situation as “complicated” despite suggesting that an agreement is still within reach. Posting on X, he stated that negotiations between Newcastle and Nottingham Forest are ongoing, and while the two sides are close, there are still unresolved details holding up the process.

This lingering uncertainty has left fans frustrated, especially considering Newcastle’s recent struggles in the transfer market. The club has already missed out on several top targets this summer, including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Dean Huijsen. Bryan Mbeumo also looks set to slip away. If Elanga joins that list, it could be Newcastle’s most disappointing failure yet, especially given how close the deal seemed.

Unlike previous cases where other clubs swooped in with better offers, Newcastle are currently in pole position to land Elanga. Though Aston Villa have been loosely linked, they haven’t made a serious move, leaving the Magpies in a strong position. That advantage, however, brings added pressure — the expectation is for Newcastle to finish what they started.

The club has clearly shown intent by pursuing Elanga aggressively, but unless the deal is completed, all of that effort will be in vain. Fans can only hope that the complications are resolved swiftly and that Elanga is soon unveiled in black and white.