Elanga’s Arrival at Newcastle: Boosting a Dynamic Front Three

Newcastle optimistic of signing Anthony Elanga - Why Swede can help form potent front three
Newcastle optimistic of signing Anthony Elanga Why Swede can help form potent front three
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    <p>Signed package valued over €65 million</p>

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        <p><img alt="Anthony Elanga joins Newcastle - How the Swedish forward can contribute to a dynamic front three" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/elanga-spotlight-1751625153-171606.png" title="Anthony Elanga joins Newcastle - How the Swedish forward can contribute to a dynamic front three"></img></p>
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    <p>Newcastle United is gearing up for a remarkable attacking enhancement in the Premier League this summer, recruiting a former Manchester United star. On Friday, the Magpies confirmed the acquisition of Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga. According to <em>Transfermarkt</em>, the initial fee is approximately €61.4 million, with an additional €5.8 million in potential add-ons. His impressive speed and direct playing style have piqued the interest of Eddie Howe’s recruitment team, and it's reported that personal terms have already been settled. Just last month, Newcastle had a bid of around €52 million declined, but they have since increased their offer and reached an agreement.</p>

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    <p>"I’m thrilled to welcome Anthony to Newcastle United. He has been one of our main targets, and I'm pleased to have secured him early in the pre-season," said Newcastle United head coach, Eddie Howe, in an official statement. "He is a talented player with unique attributes that make him a significant attacking threat. His speed, energy, and goal-scoring capability will enhance our team and fit perfectly with our playing style. Anthony is eager to further develop with us and achieve success here, and we are excited to work with him."</p>

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    <p>At just 23 years old, Elanga had a standout season at the City Ground, and a move to St James' Park could position him alongside Swedish striker Alexander Isak and the ever-evolving Anthony Gordon, forming a dynamic and hard-pressing front three capable of troubling defenses both in England and Europe. <em>Transfermarkt</em> examines the implications of this transfer and the potential for Newcastle's forward lineup to soar in the 2024/25 season.</p>

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    <h2>What Anthony Elanga Brings to Newcastle</h2>
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    <p>Only Mohamed Salah and Newcastle's own Jacob Murphy recorded more assists in the Premier League than Elanga last season, where he was a crucial playmaker for Forest. The Swede developed a potent partnership with Chris Wood and aims to replicate that chemistry with his fellow countryman Isak should he finalize his move to St James' Park. Beyond creativity, Elanga provides the running power and pace essential to Newcastle's system under Howe. His relentless energy on the pitch makes him an asset.</p>

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    <p><img alt="" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/pl-sprinting-stats-1751621405-171596.png?lm=1751621419" width="503"></img></p>
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    <p>As shown in the graphic above, a study by the Premier League highlighted that no player sprinted for a larger proportion of their playing time last season than Elanga (1.17%). Remarkably, Newcastle's own Gordon ranks second (1.10%), underscoring the potential dynamism of the Magpies' front three next season. This ability will aid in executing passes behind defenses and leverage the wingers’ speed, while also allowing the team to press effectively. Both Gordon and Elanga possess the stamina to provide support for their full-backs as well.</p>

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    <p><img alt="" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/pl-mvp-front-threes-1751624847-171605.png?lm=1751624854" width="503"></img></p>
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    <p>Coupled with Isak's talent leading the attack, Newcastle would have an intimidating front three perfectly aligned with Howe's tactical approach—an effective mix of work rate and skill. Valued at €42 million, Elanga, along with Gordon (€65 million) and Isak (€120 million), forms a trio with a combined market worth of €227 million. All three players are 25 or younger, with only Manchester City (€380 million) and Arsenal (€270 million) possessing a more valuable attacking lineup. With Champions League matches returning to the North East next season, Newcastle must enhance their squad this summer, and Elanga's signing could add a fresh dynamic to their offensive capabilities.</p>
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