Arsenal’s early Premier League opponents secure impressive £15m signing ahead of Emirates visit

Arsenal’s opening-day Premier League opponents Nottingham Forest have signed Manchester United forward Anthony Elanga for a reported £15m.

Steve Cooper’s side make the trip to the Emirates Stadium on August 12, as both sides kick off their 2023-24 league campaign in North London.

Elanga has signed a five-year deal at the City Ground, joining Ola Aina and Chris Wood as permanent arrivals this summer. Wood joined on loan from Newcastle United in January, before making his stay permanent after meeting the relevant clauses in his loan agreement.

Elanga said of his move to Forest: “It’s a pleasure to be here. It’s a proud moment, not only for me, but for my family as well. It’s the perfect next step for me in my career, it’s a big step and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the Forest fans at The City Ground.

“I had interest from elsewhere, but for me, Nottingham Forest feels like the perfect place. I’ve been here with United, and from the minute I stepped out for the warm-up, I could hear them from the changing room.

“It’s a special place, but being here with Forest, I feel like it will be even more special I’m really ready for the challenge and I just want to embrace everything and get to work.”

Forest’s Chief Football Officer Ross Wilson added: “Anthony had a number of excellent options in front of him to choose from so we are naturally delighted that from those he has chosen to become a Nottingham Forest player.

“From the first meeting we had, he was so committed to all aspects of how he can continue to develop working with Steve on the pitch whilst he was also excited and embracing of the ambitions that Mr. Marinakis has for the football club.”