Newcastle United exploring 'big-money' move for former Manchester United star - 'likely to be done'

The former Manchester United star was first linked with the Magpies in June during their frantic push to comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). However, United ended up signing Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of the agreement that saw academy graduate Elliot Anderson head to the City Ground.

But according to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, Eddie Howe’s side have reignited their interest in the 22-year-old just hours before the deadline. Crook wrote on X: “#NUFC are exploring a big-money for #NFFC winged Anthony Elanga. Told this one is developing quickly and likely to be done.”

A move would come as a huge shock after Newcastle boss Eddie Howe played down the chances of a major arrival. United had been trying to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi but talks broke down on Thursday.

When asked if there was a possibility no-one signs before 11pm tonight, Howe replied: “There is. With such short time left it is looking difficult. This window, as I’ve said many times, has been difficult and continues to be difficult for us.

“We’re in a really difficult situation with PSR and available funds, attracting the right players and the players we think can make a difference. It’s such a delicate spot for us, we’ve got to try and hit it right and if we don’t then probably doing nothing, as frustrating as that is, is probably the best option.

“The more the window has gone on, the right player becomes very hard to find. But you’ve also got to understand with that decision impacts future windows and our PSR situation drastically, so I think then you’ll understand the importance of every decision that we’re making and if you’re not absolutely certain on this being the right direction to take, you can’t take it and you’ll have to make that decision another day.”