Report: Newcastle aim to complete swap deal for Nottingham Forest star Anthony Elanga

The Magpies' interest in the 23-year-old Sweden international dates back to last summer, when a deadline day bid was rejected by Forest.

Now, with Elanga's stock having risen significantly following a superb season under Nuno Espirito Santo, Newcastle are ready to try again - this time with a strategic twist.

Harvey Barnes, currently at Newcastle after arriving from Leicester City, could be included in the deal to reduce Forest's 50-million-pound valuation of Elanga.

Barnes is reportedly being monitored by Aston Villa, but Newcastle may see him as a "makeweight" to make the Elanga transfer financially viable.

Elanga, whose contract at the City Ground runs until 2028, is not being forced out by Forest. The club are under no financial pressure to sell and will not let the winger go without a fight.

However, the player himself is said to be keen on a move to St James' Park, with the prospect of playing Champions League football acting as a key motivator.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is keen to add pace and directness to his attacking options, and Elanga's performances last season have clearly caught the eye.