Newcastle have reportedly seen a bid rejected by Nottingham Forest for Anthony Elanga. The Magpies have made it no secret that they are keen to bolster their attacking ranks this summer, with several acquisitions in their sights.
Eddie Howe’s side are long-term admirers of the 23-year-old and pushed to sign the former Manchester United last summer, offering up Miguel Almiron as part of negotiations, but without success.
Twelve months on, and the Toon Army remain keen on signing the ex-Manchester United star. According to The Athletic, Newcastle have seen a £45million bid for the winger rejected, with Forest not offering them a counter as they have no intention of parting ways with the Sweden international.
As a result, the Magpies are now weighing up whether to end their pursuit of Elanga with immediate effect or look to make a second approach. Several other options are also under consideration at St James’ Park, including West Ham star Mohammed Kudus and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo – who is also admired by Tottenham and Manchester United.
If Newcastle decide to ‘walk away’ from their pursuit then it could have serious implications on the transfer window generally, especially if they look to use the funds that they had initially allocated for Elanga elsewhere.
The Magpies remain interested in signing Brighton star Joao Pedro, having failed to acquire his services during his time at Watford. The Brazil international is hoping to secure a move away from the Amex Stadium over the coming weeks, and his availability has not gone unnoticed by several Premier League outfits.
Although Newcastle remain in talks with Brighton over a deal for the No. 9, Chelsea are also keen on the 23-year-old and he has been shortlisted as a potential striker signing to rotate with new signing Liam Delap. However, at this stage, the Blues are prioritising bolstering their ranks out wide.
With fresh funds therefore available for Howe and his side, Newcastle could look to re-direct their Elanga transfer kitty to striking a deal for Pedro before other suitors come forward with concrete offers. Brighton are demanding in the region of £60m for the forward, though it remains to be seen whether they can encourage a bidding war to break out between their rivals.