Nottingham Forest have already decided who they will sign in case Anthony Elanga does leave

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It’s been a deadline day with lots of twists and turns so far and – shock, horror – Nottingham Forest are right in the thick of things.

James Ward-Prowse looks to be signing for Forest on loan from West Ham. Elsewhere, the club want to tie up a deal for Benfica defender Morato.

Earlier tonight, things got very interesting when Newcastle enquired about Anthony Elanga – although two journalists have now dismissed that.

The 22-year-old looks to be going nowhere, although it seems as though Forest have identified a replacement just in case anything comes to fruition.

• READ MORE: Latest update on Newcastle interest in Anthony Elanga

Nottingham Forest choose Anthony Elanga replacement

According to TEAMtalk, Forest have identified Arsenal outcast Reiss Nelson as the man they would target if Elanga left.

Nelson has been expected to leave the Gunners all summer long but with just hours left of the transfer window, it appears he’s going to stay put.

The 24-year-old has been with the Gunners since his days with the youth academy and has also spent time with Hoffenheim and Feyenoord on loan.

Nelson has found regular football hard to come by with Arsenal and during the 2023/24 campaign, he featured in 24 games for Mikel Arteta’s team.

The Reds have been forced to identify a target just in case Newcastle decide to meet their valuation for Elanga ahead of the deadline.

However, it does feel unlikely that the Magpies will be able to prise the Swedish winger away from the City Ground so late in the day.

Forest should push for Nelson in January

The talented player is a decent winger and he’s capable of operating on both sides of the pitch.

Ramo Sosa and Jota Silva have been added to the ranks this summer and both players should get chances to prove themselves.

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However, Nelson would represent a solid addition to the ranks and at 24 there is room for him still to improve.

Whether Forest need another winger remains to be seen. However, it’s clear the club are looking at quality young players and perhaps Nelson can consider himself in that category.

Elanga does look set to remain at the club for now. However, it will be fascinating to see if Forest maintain their interest in the Hale End graduate.