Why is Elanga in demand?

BBC News

04-07-2025

Newcastle United's pursuit of Anthony Elanga underlines just how far the Swedish winger's stock has risen after a stellar 2024-25 campaign with Nottingham Forest. With an improved £55m offer reportedly on the table, the Magpies are hoping to add his pace, precision, and end-product to their ranks ahead of a crucial season. Yet, according to BBC Radio Nottingham's Forest commentator Colin Fray, the East Midlands club have no plans to sell - and when you look at the numbers, you can see why.Elanga's statistical profile paints the picture of a player not just improving, but excelling in some of the most important attacking metrics. The radar chart below, provided by Opta via FBref, shows Elanga ranking in the top percentiles among Premier League attacking midfielders and wingers across multiple categories.A percentile score reflects how a player compares to his positional peers - being in the 80th percentile for goal-creating actions means Elanga outperforms 80% of similar players in that key attacking measure. His high percentile for shot-on-target percentage signals not just an eye for goal but efficiency in making goalkeepers work - he doesn't waste chances.
His crossing ability sits near the top of the scale, a vital asset for any team relying on width and delivery. For comparison, none of Newcastle's current wingers - Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, or Anthony Gordon - averages more than 4.85 crosses per 90 minutes, while Elanga averages 6.65.Meanwhile, his progressive carries - how frequently he moves the ball towards goal - highlight his directness and willingness to take on defenders, adding dynamism to Forest's attack. Even his goals per shot ratio reflects a sharpness in front of goal that is increasingly rare among wingers.For Newcastle, these numbers represent everything they need: pace, efficiency, and creativity in the final third. Their recent transfer frustration stems from failing to make these kinds of decisive moves early. Elanga, who can play wide or centrally, fits the profile of a player who could unlock defences both at home and in Europe.But for Forest, the data offers equally compelling reasons to resist any approaches. Elanga is not just an emerging star - he's become integral to their style of play. His numbers aren't padded by penalties or purple patches; they reflect consistent, high-level contribution. At 23, he still has room to grow, and with Forest's ambitions to push higher up the Premier League table, keeping a player of this calibre sends a clear signal of intent.For now, Forest's stance is firm: Elanga is not for sale. And whether you view the radar through the lens of a buying club or a club determined to keep its best talent, the conclusion is the same - Elanga is already among the Premier League's most valuable wide players.Get news notifications on your club