Nottingham Forest are wasting no time in replacing Anthony Elanga — with deals in motion for Johan Bakayoko and Malick Fofana.
Elanga, who led Forest’s right flank last season, is on his way to Newcastle United, prompting an urgent search for wide options. According to Sky Sports News, the club have approached PSV Eindhoven over Belgium international Bakayoko and are also holding talks with Lyon for 19-year-old Fofana.
Bakayoko Deal Could Hit £30m
Johan Bakayoko is attracting serious interest — from Forest, Brentford, Newcastle, Spurs and Borussia Dortmund.
The 22-year-old scored 9 goals and provided 1 assist in 30 Eredivisie matches last season. PSV reportedly want £30m for the winger, and Forest are one of the few clubs willing to move quickly.
“Forest have tracked Bakayoko since January. Dortmund may offer strong competition, but the Premier League is the player’s top preference,” said Sky’s Lyall Thomas. — Sky Sports News
Malick Fofana Another Serious Option
Forest also admire Malick Fofana, the highly-rated Lyon winger who was previously on Chelsea’s radar.
With Lyon in financial chaos — and potentially facing relegation due to mismanagement — they’re open to player sales. Forest have already held conversations with the French club regarding potential swap or cash deals.
Fofana, who is comfortable on both flanks, could arrive as part of a two-player attacking revamp.
Transfer Targets – 2024/25 Stats
| Player | Club | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johan Bakayoko | PSV Eindhoven | 30 | 9 | 1 |
| Malick Fofana | Lyon | 32 | 4 | 5 |
Analyst Verdict
Bakayoko and Fofana would give Forest much-needed pace, width and dribbling threat in the final third. While Bakayoko is the more complete product, Fofana fits the club’s long-term model — and Lyon’s crisis could make him a steal.
Key Slights
- Forest see Bakayoko as a marquee Elanga replacement — but must beat Dortmund to the deal
- Lyon’s financial crisis gives Forest real leverage for Fofana
- Both targets offer pace, flair, and long-term resale value — aligning with Forest’s model
- Failure to act quickly could allow rival PL clubs to hijack both deals
What’s Next?
Forest are expected to intensify talks this week. PSV are standing firm on their £30m valuation for Bakayoko, while Lyon’s situation could open a window for a value deal on Fofana.
Would Bakayoko and Fofana be the right Elanga replacements? Let us know your pick below!
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 8 Jul 2025 18:31
I dont know about this Fofana guy but Bakayoko is a good one - actually the year before he was better. This season wasn't his best season
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