Newcastle United’s pursuit of Brighton striker Joao Pedro has taken an unexpected turn, as Premier League rivals Chelsea have reportedly joined the race.
Newcastle Pushes Ahead with Pedro Negotiations
Newcastle are currently engaged in advanced discussions with Brighton over the signing of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro. Sources close to the situation have confirmed to ChronicleLive that high-level negotiations are ongoing, with the Magpies expressing serious intent to get the deal finalised.
So far, Newcastle’s offer has climbed to around £50 million. However, Brighton are holding out for a figure closer to £60 million for the 23-year-old, who netted 10 goals last season and has three international caps with Brazil.
This is not the first time Newcastle have pursued Pedro. The player was previously linked with a move to St James’ Park during his Watford days, but the move failed to materialise.
Chelsea Submit Rival Bid for the Brazilian Forward
New claims from The Guardian‘s Ed Aarons suggest Chelsea have now entered the frame by submitting a bid for Pedro as well. Similar to Newcastle’s, their offer reportedly falls short of Brighton’s valuation, meaning the transfer saga could drag on as both clubs work to meet the Seagulls’ asking price.
Despite this new competition, Newcastle remain confident. Club sources suggest there is genuine optimism that they can complete the transfer before the start of pre-season training. However, given the challenging nature of the current transfer window, caution remains within the club as rival teams seek to complicate negotiations.
Pedro Reflects on Past Failed Newcastle Move
Speaking to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, Pedro reflected on a previous attempt by Newcastle to sign him during his stint at Watford.
“I had that negotiation with Newcastle,” Pedro recalled. “Even months ago, I was upset that I hadn’t left, but I said; ‘Now is my time at Watford, I have to make it happen, since it didn’t happen, this time it will’.”
Pedro eventually moved to Brighton from Watford, where he has since emerged as one of the league’s more promising young forwards.
Newcastle’s Other Transfer Targets Face Delays
In addition to their efforts to sign Pedro, Newcastle are also actively pursuing deals for other targets. The club has submitted a £45 million bid for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga, which has been rejected, although a revised offer could follow. Talks for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford are also ongoing, but a fee has yet to be agreed.
Leave a Reply