Anthony Elanga Signing Shows Eddie Howe Is King At Newcastle United

Newcastle United has completed the signing of winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest in a reported £55 million deal. This addresses a long-standing need for an exciting first-choice right-winger, a position the club had struggled to fill adequately due to constraints from Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). These financial regulations forced difficult decisions, limiting squad investment and requiring manager Eddie Howe to maximize existing players.

Despite leading Newcastle to two cup finals (winning one) and two Champions League qualifications in three seasons, Howe faced persistent challenges on the right flank. While Miguel Almiron excelled in 2022-23 and Jacob Murphy delivered unexpectedly strong numbers (8 goals, 12 assists) last season, consistent top-level output remained elusive. Elanga represents the first significant first-team improving signing in two years, arriving against a backdrop of financial restrictions, revenue limitations compared to rivals, and internal power struggles involving departed sporting directors.

This signing is seen as a personal victory for Howe, who has regained more influence over recruitment this summer, similar to when he first joined. He had pursued Elanga previously, with a £45m bid submitted on last year's deadline day. Elanga fits Howe's preferred player profile: exceptionally quick (sub-11 second 100m pace), remarkably durable (missed only two Premier League games in two seasons for Forest), and productive (11 assists and 6 goals last season).

Tactically, Elanga's pace and ability to exploit space, particularly in transition when Newcastle regains possession, align with Howe's approach, even as the team emphasizes greater possession dominance. His strength with both feet compensates for not being naturally left-footed. Elanga expressed his readiness and commitment, stating to the club's website: "I’m excited, I’m really happy but most importantly I’m ready... to really fight for this team and give everything for the passionate fanbase."