Nottingham Forest have been dealt a frustrating blow in their search for a potential replacement for Anthony Elanga, as one of their top summer targets appears to be slipping out of reach. The Premier League side, eager to reinforce their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, had reportedly shortlisted an exciting winger to step into Elanga’s role—should the Swedish international leave this summer. However, developments in recent days have forced the club to rethink their plans.
The winger in question, believed to be a highly-rated young talent from mainland Europe, had been closely monitored by Forest scouts throughout last season. Club officials viewed him as a like-for-like successor to Elanga, who made a strong impression at the City Ground last season with his explosive pace, creativity, and goal contributions. But despite Forest’s early groundwork and initial optimism, the deal now seems unlikely to materialize.
According to multiple reports, the player’s current club has increased their asking price following interest from several top-tier European teams. This surge in demand has not only driven up the transfer fee but also alerted richer clubs who can offer both Champions League football and higher wages. As a result, Nottingham Forest—while financially stable—are unwilling to enter a bidding war that could compromise other areas of their summer rebuild.
For Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo, this comes as a setback. Elanga has been one of the side’s brightest sparks since his arrival from Manchester United, registering several key assists and goals that helped the club avoid relegation last term. Though no official bids have been made for Elanga, interest from bigger Premier League clubs and across Europe has been growing. If a lucrative offer comes in, Forest may be forced to cash in and reinvest.
Forest fans had been hoping the club could act swiftly in the market, building on the momentum of last season’s survival and shoring up a squad that often lacked consistency in the final third. While the club still maintains a shortlist of possible targets, missing out on their priority option is a cause for concern—especially with pre-season already underway.
The blow is even more disappointing considering the club’s intent to be proactive this summer. Under sporting director Ross Wilson, Forest have been eager to evolve from reactive signings to structured, long-term planning. Losing a top target so early in the window will test that strategy and put pressure on recruitment to find quality alternatives before the season begins.
Nevertheless, the club is not giving up. Reports suggest they have already turned their attention to a few under-the-radar talents, including players from the Belgian Pro League and the Dutch Eredivisie, who could be brought in at a lower cost but still offer similar attributes to Elanga. Additionally, internal options like Callum Hudson-Odoi and academy prospects may also be asked to step up.
For now, Nottingham Forest will continue to monitor the transfer landscape closely. But with the Elanga situation still unresolved and their top replacement target likely heading elsewhere, fans will be hoping the club can bounce back quickly. In a league as unforgiving as the Premier League, missing out on key transfer business can have serious consequences.
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