Former Newcastle United midfielder Chris Waddle has criticized the club for failing to include a sell-on clause in the transfer agreement involving Elliot Anderson, who was sold to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2024. Anderson, now 23, was transferred for £35 million at that time, as Newcastle sought to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules alongside other sales, including the £30 million transfer of 21-year-old Yankuba Minteh to Brighton.

Waddle expressed his views in an interview with Andy’s Bet Club, pointing out that Newcastle missed an opportunity to benefit financially from Anderson’s subsequent rise in value. “Newcastle didn’t have a sell-on clause, which is daft when you look back,” Waddle said. “Yes, they got good money at the time, but the lad has developed into a very good footballer, and he’s worth more than double that now.” He added that the absence of such a clause could cost the club “quite a few million” as Anderson appears likely to move again.

Speculation has intensified around Anderson’s future, with Manchester City reportedly preparing a substantial offer valued at approximately £130 million. The potential deal would represent a significant increase over Newcastle’s original transfer fee but would not yield any further proceeds for the club due to the missing sell-on arrangement.

Newcastle United’s decision to sell Anderson in 2024 was part of a broader strategic effort to meet financial regulations governing club spending and sustainability. While the initial £35 million fee was seen as a satisfactory return at the time, the player’s rapid development and subsequent market valuation have highlighted the financial implications of not incorporating protective clauses in transfer agreements. The club has yet to comment publicly on Waddle’s remarks or the possibility of recouping any value from Anderson’s impending move.