Nottingham Forest speedster Anthony Elanga finally joins Newcastle United

Anthony Elanga has finally completed his move from Nottingham Forest to Newcastle United after the Magpies refused to give up their dogged pursuit.

The 23-year-old Sweden international has signed a long-term deal after the Tyneside club agreed an undisclosed fee reported to be around £55m with Forest to secure the winger's services.

Elanga, who was a target for Eddie Howe last summer, will join international team-mate Alexander Isak at St James' Park as his new employers prepare for a season which will include a return to Champions League football.

Elanga, who began his career at Manchester United, has prospered since his £15m switch to Forest during the summer of 2023.

He caught the eye at St James' on Boxing Day of the same year when he and Morgan Gibbs-White tore Newcastle apart to set up a hat-trick for former Magpie Chris Wood in a 3-1 Premier League win.

However, his recruitment has been far from straightforward with Forest reluctant sellers of a player who made 43 appearances for them in all competitions last season.

Elanga said: "I'm excited, I'm really happy but most importantly I'm ready. I'm ready to put on this black and white top to really fight for this team and give everything for the passionate fanbase that lives and breathes football.

"I had an amazing two years at Nottingham Forest, they really helped me to become the player I am today, but I'm really happy to be here now.

"The club won a trophy last season and are building something unique, something special that I really want to be part of.

"I really want to buy into the culture, into the DNA of this club. I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started."

The Swede's pace and service will add major weapons to the Newcastle armoury and ramp up competition for places among a pool of attacking players which was weakened by Miguel Almiron's January departure for Atlanta United as the club continued to wrestle with profitability and sustainability rules.

A statement on the official Forest website said: "Nottingham Forest can confirm Anthony Elanga has completed a permanent transfer to Newcastle United.

"Everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank Anthony for his contributions in a Forest shirt and wish him every success in his future career."