FPL signings: Can Elanga be the No 1 Newcastle midfielder?

The arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest can further lift Newcastle United’s attacking potential in 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League.

The 23-year-old will compete with Jacob Murphy for the starting right-wing spot in Eddie Howe’s 4-3-3 formation.

Elanga arrives at St James’ Park as a proven Fantasy asset, having scored six goals and provided 11 assists in 2024/25, as he helped Forest qualify for Europe for the first time in 30 years.

The creative numbers, in particular, indicate where Elanga can excel.

His average of 51.0 minutes per key pass in 2024/25 was only just behind Anthony Gordon (48.0), while his 13.7 minutes per cross was quicker than any Newcastle winger last season.

Minutes per key pass/cross, 24/25

In terms of goal threat, Elanga’s average of 57.5 minutes per shot was less favourable in comparison to Gordon (41.5), Murphy (55.0) and Harvey Barnes (29.0).

This disparity is partly attributable to the playing styles of their respective teams, however.

As a counter-attacking side, Forest averaged only 40.7 per cent possession, which was the third-lowest in the Premier League. In contrast, Newcastle averaged 51.3 per cent possession.

Consequently, Nuno Espirito Santo’s men recorded 65 fewer shots than the Magpies, so you’d think Elanga’s goal threat could improve when playing in a more offensive team.

Newcastle’s tough opening schedule in 2025/26 dents the appeal of investing in their players early on.

In their first two matches, the Magpies face Aston Villa and Liverpool.

Managers in Fantasy should perhaps allow Elanga time to settle, then, before considering him for a kinder run of opponents from Gameweek 3.

Newcastle's first five matches

*1 = easiest possible fixture, 5 = hardest possible fixture

By that time, we will have clarity on whether the Sweden international is involved in set-pieces, a key factor in assessing his FPL appeal.