Keith Downie: £60m winger wants Newcastle move - Movement expected in coming days

A week ago today, news broke that Newcastle United had failed with a £45m bid for Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga.

David Ornstein released the news before others followed, with Sky Sports' Keith Downie stating that Forest are holding out for £60m.

Since then, both João Pedro and James Trafford have dominated the headlines, but with the former heading to Chelsea for £55m-plus and the latter close to signing from Burnley, our attentions could soon turn back to Elanga, if they haven't already.

On that subject, Downie has been discussing a move for the Swedish international and he sounded hopeful that the 23-year-old could arrive on Tyneside this summer.

Downie backs Elanga to sign

Speaking on his Youtube channel from outside St James' Park, Keith Downie has explained why he expects Anthony Elanga to sign this summer.

He insists that the former Man Utd talent is our 'number one' right winger target now a deal for Bryan Mbeumo is off the cards and is told that the player would be keen on a move to Newcastle.

Downie also states that Newcastle are 'close' in terms of the fee, believing a compromise could be one to watch in the coming days after our £45m offer felt short of Forest's £60m demands.

"All the noises are that Elanga is the number one choice. Of course, that was Bryan Mbeumo, but it's now been moved to Elanga, and I can see him being perfect for Eddie Howe's style.

"I feel that deal will get done. Newcastle aren't in competition with anyone and they know that they are close in terms of the fee.

"I think the player would be happy to move here from what I'm being told. And it's a case of Newcastle coming up with the numbers."

"They offered £45m last week but Forest want £60m. I feel if Newcastle split the difference and offered £52-53m, they'd get the deal done, and I'd hope there will be some movement on that in the next few days.

"I expect Newcastle to come back in with an improved bid if they haven't already."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQbPmmPJ-LU&t=603s