Manchester United Poised to Cash In on Anthony Elanga Transfer Move
Newcastle United are reportedly nearing completion of a major transfer to acquire Nottingham Forest's winger Anthony Elanga, with his former club Manchester United poised to receive financial benefits from the move.
Since departing United for Forest in 2023 through a £15 million ($20.5 million) transfer, Elanga has demonstrated remarkable progress, netting six goals and providing 11 assists during the previous Premier League campaign.
While Newcastle's initial summer bid of £45 million ($61.4 million) was rejected, they have now submitted an improved offer approaching £55 million ($75.1 million), which the Daily Mail reports is nearing acceptance.
Agreement on personal terms shouldn't pose difficulties, though Newcastle are eager to expedite the process amid competition from other clubs. Aston Villa have been mentioned as potential competitors for the 23-year-old Swedish international.
If the transfer materializes, Manchester United would receive a substantial financial boost due to a sell-on provision included in their Forest agreement from two years prior. The report indicates the clause stands at 15% of any future sale profit, though alternative Mail sources suggest it could reach 20%—potentially earning United approximately £8 million ($10.9 million).
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has long admired Elanga and previously attempted to secure his services last summer, but there's growing optimism that an agreement will finally be reached to bring him to St James' Park.
Should the deal proceed, Elanga would represent Newcastle's inaugural summer acquisition, while United could utilize the incoming funds to support their squad reconstruction efforts this summer.
Having already invested £62.5 million ($85.3 million) in Matheus Cunha, a comparable amount might be required to secure Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. United are anticipated to focus on player sales to generate capital for additional transfers.
Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford are all available for transfer, and United's efforts to sell Rashford may have gained momentum after Barcelona, his long-term admirers, were unsuccessful in their pursuit of Athletic Club's Nico Williams.