Elliot Anderson sends heartfelt message after reluctant £35m Newcastle United departure

Elliot Anderson has hailed his time at Newcastle United as a 'dream come true' after the 21-year-old's shock £35million move to Nottingham Forest was confirmed at the weekend.

Anderson, who made 55 appearances for Newcastle since making the step up from the academy, has signed a five-year deal at the City Ground.

The Magpies reluctantly sanctioned his departure as they explored several different avenues to help them comply with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules.

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Newcastle, like all Premier League clubs, are allowed to make losses of up to £105m over a rolling three-year period and Sunday marked the end of the current profit and sustainability cycle.

United sold Anderson to Forest for £35million and also sold Yankuba Minteh to Brighton for around £33million. Those two departures, alongside Manchester United finally agreeing a compensation package for sporting director Dan Ashworth, helped Newcastle ensure they haven't fallen foul of those rules.

Anderson leaves the club on good terms, though, and the former Bristol Rovers loanee has sent a heartfelt message to the club and its supporters after leaving Newcastle after 14 years.

"It’s been a dream come true to represent my club for 14 years," Anderson tweeted.

"Pulling that black and white shirt on at St James' Park is a moment that will never be taken away from me. I would like to thank everyone involved with the club and all the Geordies that have supported me throughout my journey.

"I will always support the club and wish nothing but the best for everyone involved. As one door closes another one opens. Thank you, NUFC."

Newcastle then replied to Anderson's message by replying: "One of our own. Wishing you every success for the future, @elljanderson."

Forest's Chief Football Officer, Ross Wilson, hailed the arrival of Anderson and has tipped him to 'thrive' during his time in the East Midlands.

“We are all delighted to welcome Elliot to Nottingham Forest and pleased that he has chosen to continue to develop his talent with us in the Premier League," he said.

"We are sure he will thrive in a Forest shirt, as other players in his age profile have done. As soon as the opportunity arose for him to potentially join, it was something we were all excited to make happen.”