‘Nottingham Forest work on signing Elanga replacement after Newcastle twist’
Nottingham Forest are working hard to identify replacements for Anthony Elanga amid speculation about his future at the City Ground.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that there are already a few names on Nuno Espirito Santo’s shortlist at the City Ground.
The Sweden international featured in all 38 of Forest’s Premier League games last season as he scored six goals and provided 11 assists in the competition.
Football Insider revealed on 11 June that Newcastle could step up their interest in Elanga after failing in their pursuit of Man United-bound Bryan Mbeumo.
He has been a long-term target at St James’ Park after they saw a £35million move turned down last summer, but there is renewed confidence they can pull off a deal.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider on 12 June that Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Oscar Bobb on loan from Man City to bolster their squad.
Nottingham Forest eye Anthony Elanga replacements
Brown told Football Insider on 10 June that Elanga wants to join Newcastle as the Magpies are preparing to open talks with Nottingham Forest.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted work has begun behind the scenes as Forest are determined not to be caught short.
“Forest are working on finding replacements for Elanga,” he told Football Insider.
“He’s been terrific for Forest and his explosive pace has been a real asset to them and he’s been a big part of their success and the way they play under Nuno.
“They took a chance when he came in from Man United and it’s paid off for them.
“Now, there’s a lot of talk about a move to Newcastle and if he is going to go, the club are going to need somebody to fill that gap.
“They’re likely to go down the same route of signing a younger player who they can develop.
“And it will need to be like-for-like given the role he has played and how that’s benefited his teammates.
“I’m sure they’ll already have their eye on a few players and they’ll be putting together a list, because while they don’t want to lose Elanga, they may have no choice.”
Morgan Gibbs-White update emerges amid Chelsea interest
Elanga is not the only star name being linked with a move away from the City Ground this summer, as Morgan Gibbs-White has been subject to intense speculation.
Brown told Football Insider on 10 June that Chelsea are considering a move for Gibbs-White as Enzo Maresca aims to bolster his midfield options.
Man City had been heavily linked with the England international, but prioritised alternative targets and are have recently completed a deal for Tijjani Reijnders.
Football Insider revealed on 10 May that Gibbs-White is flattered by the growing interest in his signature and Forest may be powerless to keep him.
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