Anthony Elanga's ability to offer something different means it is no surprise the Nottingham Forest ace has caught the eye of other clubs, according to former striker Andy Cole.

Despite a dip in performance levels towards the end of last season, Elanga impressed during his first campaign at the City Ground. He made the move from Manchester United 12 months ago in a PS15 million deal and quickly settled in Trentside.

The 22-year-old notched up five goals in 39 appearances for the Reds and played his part in survival being secured. As a result of his good form, Elanga has been linked with a move to Newcastle United this summer.

The suggestion is that he is keen to stay put and Forest want to keep him. But Cole, who played for both clubs during his career, can see why the Sweden international is being monitored by the Magpies.

"It would be a good move to be fair," Cole told Betfred. "Since he left Manchester United, he's got his head down and had a very good first season at Nottingham Forest in a team that struggled in their second season back in the Premier League.

"In the games I watched him play in for Nottingham Forest, I saw him bring something else because he has that pace, he's very direct and he can pick people out in the box. If that move does happen, then he could be a good replacement for Anthony Gordon if he moves on.

"He's young, still learning and very enthusiastic. You never know what could happen but I do like him and if it does happen, it would be a good move for Newcastle."

Forest and Newcastle held talks about a potential swap deal for Elanga before last month's accounting deadline. Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson were mooted as options to head in the opposite direction as the St James' Park outfit looked to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

In the end, Anderson joined the Reds for PS35m and goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos went the other way. At the time, it was said Forest neither wanted nor needed to sell Elanga as he was viewed as an important member of the group. However, Newcastle's interest has seemingly not gone away as reports have suggested they remain keen.