Transfer Focus: Elliott, Elanga & Gyökeres
As the summer transfer window heats up, several emerging stars are catching the eye of top Premier League clubs. Among the most talked-about names are Harvey Elliott, Anthony Elanga, and Viktor Gyökeres—three players at very different stages of their development, but each with the potential to shape the dynamics of the 2025–26 season. Their contrasting styles, tactical fit, and market value have made them central figures in this summer’s transfer speculation. AW8 PRO
In this in-depth transfer focus, we explore what makes each of these players a target, where they might be headed, and how their moves could influence not only their own careers but also the clubs investing in them.
? Harvey Elliott – Ready for the Next Step?
Club: Liverpool
Position: Midfielder / Winger
Age: 22
Harvey Elliott’s rise through English football has been carefully managed by Liverpool since his move from Fulham in 2019. Once the youngest player to ever feature in a Premier League match, Elliott has gradually become a squad regular at Anfield. But despite his technical gifts, vision, and work ethic, he remains somewhat on the fringe under new manager Arne Slot.
Slot’s tactical shift toward a more controlled and positional approach could benefit Elliott’s creative profile, but competition in midfield is fierce. With Florian Wirtz arriving this summer and Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch all vying for spots, there’s growing speculation that Elliott may seek more consistent minutes elsewhere.
Several mid-table Premier League clubs—including Brighton, Aston Villa, and West Ham—are said to be monitoring his situation. A loan move or even a permanent transfer with a buy-back clause could be on the cards. Liverpool are reportedly unwilling to let him go for less than £30 million.
From a tactical perspective, Elliott thrives as a right-sided No. 8 or as a wide playmaker cutting inside. His ball progression, dribbling in tight areas, and ability to link with forwards make him a valuable asset for any side aiming to control possession and unlock low blocks.
At 22, Elliott is reaching the point in his career where he needs consistent starts to refine his influence in the final third. Whether that’s at Anfield or elsewhere remains to be seen.
⚡ Anthony Elanga – Rebirth in Progress
Club: Nottingham Forest
Position: Winger
Age: 23
After an underwhelming spell at Manchester United, Anthony Elanga made a bold move to Nottingham Forest in 2023—and it’s paid dividends. The Swedish international enjoyed a breakout 2024–25 campaign, registering 10 goals and 8 assists in all competitions. His pace, directness, and improved end product have made him one of the most exciting young wingers in the Premier League.
Elanga’s revival has not gone unnoticed. Sources suggest that Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are both keen on adding his vertical threat to their attacking lines. Forest are believed to value him at around £35–40 million, and with Financial Fair Play pressures mounting at the City Ground, a sale could be on the horizon.
Tactically, Elanga is most effective on the left flank, where he can stretch the defense and exploit space behind full-backs. His one-on-one ability, off-the-ball runs, and pressing instincts fit perfectly into modern, high-intensity systems. Under the right coaching, there’s a sense that Elanga could evolve into a top-tier winger.
For clubs seeking dynamism and athleticism, Elanga is a low-risk, high-upside target. He still has room to grow but has already proven he can make an impact in England’s top flight.
? Viktor Gyökeres – Europe’s Most Wanted No. 9
Club: Sporting CP
Position: Striker
Age: 27
No striker in Europe has had a more meteoric rise in the past 18 months than Viktor Gyökeres. After dominating the Championship with Coventry City, the Swedish forward made a high-profile switch to Sporting CP in 2023—and exploded. He scored 36 goals and added 14 assists in the 2024–25 season across all competitions, making him one of the most lethal No. 9s in Europe.
At 27, Gyökeres is in his prime and ready for a return to English football. Both Chelsea and Arsenal have made inquiries, while Manchester United are also said to be monitoring his situation closely, especially if they part ways with Mason Greenwood or Anthony Martial.
Sporting have placed a release clause of €100 million on Gyökeres, and while they’re under no pressure to sell, a Premier League offer in that region could tempt them. The player himself has not shied away from expressing his desire to return to England—this time at the very top level.
Gyökeres is a complete striker: physically dominant, quick over short bursts, technically sound, and highly intelligent with his movement. He’s also capable of dropping deep to link play, something Arsenal in particular are looking for as they try to upgrade their No. 9 position.
His profile is reminiscent of players like Edin Džeko in his prime—robust, reliable, and impactful in big games. For any club aiming to compete in Europe and domestically, Gyökeres would be a transformative signing.
? Who Fits Where?
Each of these players offers a different solution depending on a club’s tactical and structural needs:
Elliott could become a creative hub for a possession-heavy team lacking invention in midfield. Brighton and West Ham would be ideal fits.
Elanga is a vertical winger who could thrive under coaches like Ange Postecoglou or Eddie Howe. Spurs and Newcastle make sense.
Gyökeres is a Champions League-ready striker, and Arsenal may be his best destination if they’re willing to spend.
These moves also reflect the broader shift in transfer strategy across the Premier League: clubs are targeting players in their early-to-mid 20s, with resale value and room for development, but who are already performing at a high level.
? Conclusion
The futures of Harvey Elliott, Anthony Elanga, and Viktor Gyökeres will be among the most fascinating stories of the 2025 summer transfer window. Whether they stay and fight for their place or move to new pastures, each player is poised for a pivotal season.
For fans, this trio represents different aspects of football’s evolution: the academy graduate needing first-team exposure, the revival project proving his doubters wrong, and the late bloomer ready to dominate at the highest level.
Whatever happens next, one thing is clear—Elliott, Elanga, and Gyökeres won’t be on the sidelines this season. They’ll be at the heart of it.
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