The Carabao Cup is ours, the 70-year wait is over and we have 10 more cup finals to come in the Premier League, with a top five spot the ultimate goal to bring Champions League football back to St James’ Park.

One club on course for a place in Europe’s elite competition is high-flying Nottingham Forest, who have been the league’s surprise package just months after we attempted to sign one of their star men.

That man is Anthony Elanga, who has been discussing our interest in recent days while away on international duty with our very own Alexander Isak.

Elanga responds to Newcastle interest

Back in August last year, Newcastle seemingly gave up on their month-long pursuit of Marc Guehi and launched a deadline day bid for Anthony Elanga.

A bid out of the blue and one Nottingham rejected, although it showed how much we must rate the Swede, with Sky Sports reporting that our offer was worth £50m.

Almost an entire season later, we’re still in the hunt for a new right-winger and Elanga’s stock has only risen after 14 goal involvements for a Forest side currently up in third. But, what has the 22-year-old had to say?

Speaking to Swedish outlet Fotboll Skanalen, Elanga said this when asked specifically about interest from Newcastle:

“If I have a good season there will always be teams that want to talk.

“But right now I’m in Nottingham and I’m happy there.”

Discussing our bid in September last year, Elanga said: “It is clear you can see that Newcastle United are interested [in signing me]. It means that I’m playing good football, when a big club shows interest.

“However, Nottingham Forest is also a big club. They have won two Champions Leagues, even though it was before I was born… but I am happy in Nottingham and have a contract there. I am focusing on Nottingham Forest and I hope to have a good season, then we will see what happens…

“Alexander Isak talked to me about it (Newcastle United interest in signing Anthony Elanga). However, I said the same to him, as I say to you. We have a good relationship and good chemistry when we play together [for Sweden] but I have a contract with Nottingham Forest…”

Considering our serious interest last summer and ongoing need for a new right winger, he could be one to watch. However, I have my doubts about us pulling this deal off two transfer windows later…

Why a move looks less likely now

Had we not made such a last-minute bid back in August and Forest were given the funds and time to replace Elanga, I think £40-50m would’ve got it done.

When this summer comes around, Forest will be in a position of strength. His value has only increased and the Reds will have no desire to lose a key player ahead of a season in Europe, potentially even the Champions League.

And with that, I can’t see Elanga pushing for a move. So, with all of that in mind, I’d put my money on Paul Mitchell looking overseas for the next big thing, or pursuing a slightly more Premier League proven alternative like Bryan Mbeumo, should funds allow it.

Elanga has incredible pace, clear ability and could fit in nicely alongside fellow countryman Alexander Isak, I just think this ship might’ve sailed.