Newcastle eye Elliot Anderson signing but £100m valuation should end the pursuit

Newcastle United have shown “strong interest” in signing Elliot Anderson, but the player will cost upwards of £100 million, according to The Telegraph.

Newcastle were forced to let go of Anderson due to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR), but the Magpies want to bring him back to St James’ Park.

The Geordies sold him to Nottingham Forest for only £15 million, but he has developed into one of the most impressive midfielders in the country.

Tuchel hailed him as “very complete” and an “elite player” following his recent performances for the national team.

Forest won’t do Newcastle any favours and plan to get as much as nine figures for the England international during the summer transfer window.

They are not considering a winter sale under any circumstances.

Newcastle did not insert a buyback clause and will have to deal with whatever Forest chairman Evangelos Marinakis decides.

The Magpies are not alone in the race for Anderson’s signature, with Manchester United also interested.

Chelsea could enter the picture if Romeo Lavia continues to struggle with injuries.

However, that price tag pushes Newcastle into uncomfortable territory.

NUFC cannot justify spending north of £100 million on a single player this summer, no matter how gifted Anderson is or how much sentimental value the move might carry.

The squad has too many areas crying out for reinforcements, from midfield depth to added quality at full-back and reliable forward options.

Pouring their entire budget into one marquee signing would be reckless in a window where smart, balanced recruitment is essential.

Anderson may become one of the Premier League’s very best.

Newcastle need to take the loss on this one, accept the reality of their PSR misstep, and start identifying more attainable, cost-efficient alternatives in the market.

The Magpies should take a look at Lyon’s Tyler Morton, who has impressed since leaving Liverpool for France.

Paris Saint-Germain’s Lee Kang-in is also an underrated central midfielder (even though he features on the wing) worth keeping an eye on.