NafisaNewcastle Unable to Reclaim Eliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh
Newcastle United do not possess a buy-back clause for Nottingham Forest midfielder Eliot Anderson or Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh, according to the Daily Mail.
Anderson’s standout performances this season have sparked questions among Newcastle fans about the possibility of re-signing the academy graduate. However, it has now been confirmed that no such clause exists, leaving hopes of a return dashed.
Both players were reluctantly sold last summer as Newcastle sought to comply with PSR regulations. Anderson joined Nottingham Forest for a fee of around £35 million, with goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos heading to St. James’ Park in a £20 million swap deal. Meanwhile, Minteh departed for Brighton in a £33 million move.
These sales were far from ideal for the Magpies, who were forced into them to avoid a potential points deduction. The absence of a buy-back option now complicates Newcastle’s ambitions of bolstering their squad for a push towards European football under Eddie Howe.
With Miguel Almiron struggling to find consistency and Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon preferring the left flank, Jacob Murphy remains Newcastle’s only specialist option on the right wing. A return for Minteh would have been the perfect remedy, but the club must now explore alternatives. While Bryan Mbeumo has been identified as a “dream target” for the position, Brentford’s financial demands make a deal highly unlikely.
Why Newcastle Regret Selling Anderson and Minteh
There is a lingering sense of remorse within Newcastle’s ranks over Anderson’s departure, given the remarkable impact he has made at Nottingham Forest. The 20-year-old has been pivotal in Forest’s stellar campaign, with the club currently sitting third in the Premier League and on course for Champions League qualification. Anderson has been at the core of their midfield success, showcasing his quality week in, week out.
Similarly, Minteh’s attributes make him a player Newcastle could sorely use. Although his goal tally of just two in the league this season isn’t eye-catching, his raw pace, flair, and technical ability underline his immense potential. At only 20, Minteh has a bright future ahead—but it won’t be at St. James’ Park.
Eliot Anderson Premier League 2024/25 Statistics
Appearances: 19
Assists: 5
Tackles per 90: 2.5
Key passes per 90: 1.4
Both Anderson and Minteh have promising careers ahead, but Newcastle’s hopes of reuniting with them have effectively been extinguished.
All statistics via WhoScored, accurate as of 10/01/2025.
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