Elliot Anderson's first message to Nottingham Forest after Newcastle United transfer 'surprise'

There will no doubt be more than a tinge of sadness after leaving Newcastle United but Elliot Anderson is already raring to go at Nottingham Forest after his £35m transfer.

In his first interview in his new surroundings, the midfielder brushed aside any feelings of disappointment at leaving his boyhood club and instead expressed his desire to prove his worth as a Premier League talent following an injury-hit campaign at St James' Park.

“It’s the club and the city. I’ve always been very fond of Nottingham Forest and I think it’s a great place to display what I can do and go onto try and help my career," Anderson told Forest's media channels.

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“It’s a great opportunity. It’s a fresh start so I want to attack it and show everyone what ability I’ve got. I’m looking forward to it all.”

Anderson's exit came somewhat out of the blue in recent days as Newcastle moved to fully comply with their profit and sustainability obligations during a hectic weekend of trading. The 21-year-old, and 19-year-old Yankuba Minteh, were moved on by the Magpies in a £68m double deal to balance the books on Tyneside.

Forest, however, are said to have been left 'surprised' at the fact Anderson was made available this summer. The Athletic report Nuno Espirito Santo's transfer team assumed the Newcastle star would be out of reach during this window due to Eddie Howe's love of the youngster.

It is also thought Forest weren't intending to go all out to strengthen their midfield this summer but have admired Anderson for a while and did not want to miss out on the opportunity to sign the Newcastle academy graduate.

Newcastle believe they have now fully met their PSR obligations to avoid a points deduction at the start of 2025. The north east outfit also gained a player in the deal, signing Forest goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of Anderson's exit.

Attention now turns to incoming business, while there is the expectation some first-team players will be sold as the window progresses.