Newcastle United are reportedly close to securing the signing of Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga after submitting an improved offer of £55 million. This follows an earlier bid of £45 million that was turned down by Forest.

Elanga has emerged as a primary target for Newcastle this summer, with manager Eddie Howe keen to add him to his squad. Newcastle had also expressed interest in Elanga last summer but were unable to agree on a fee due to Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Newcastle's initial offer of £45 million was rejected by Nottingham Forest last week. Sky Sports reported that Newcastle was expected to return with an improved bid. According to The Mail, the new £55 million offer could be enough to finalize the deal. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, with Aston Villa also rumored to be interested in Elanga.

Elanga has strong connections at Newcastle, being international teammates with Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth. He also has a close relationship with Newcastle forward William Osula, as they share the same agency.

Elanga's move to Nottingham Forest from Manchester United in 2023 for £15 million could also factor into the transfer. Manchester United are understood to be entitled to 15% of any profit Forest makes from selling Elanga.

Newcastle United finished fifth in the Premier League in the 2024/25 season, qualifying for the Champions League, and won the EFL Cup. Adding Elanga to their squad would strengthen their team ahead of their return to the Champions League.

During the 2024/25 season, Elanga contributed six goals and 12 assists for Forest, helping them finish seventh in the Premier League and reach the FA Cup semi-final. He featured in all 38 of Forest's Premier League matches and started 31 times.