Former Watford Star Back on Magpies’ Radar After Brentford Target Looks Elsewhere
Joao Pedro has once again emerged as a potential transfer target for Newcastle United, with reports suggesting the Magpies could revive their interest in the versatile forward this summer.
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle are exploring attacking options after missing out on Bryan Mbeumo, who now appears more inclined to join Manchester United. That development has opened the door for Newcastle to circle back to Pedro — a player they came close to signing during his Watford days.
Pedro Still Haunted by Failed 2022 Move to St. James’ Park
Pedro was heavily linked with a move to Newcastle back in 2022, but the club ultimately signed Alexander Isak for a then-club-record fee of £63 million. While the Isak deal has been a resounding success — the Swede has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances — the fallout from the collapsed Pedro move lingered.
Speaking to Globo Esporte in 2023, the Brazilian forward revealed his initial frustration:
“I had this negotiation with Newcastle. Until months ago I was upset about not leaving… I said, ‘Now is my moment at Watford, I have to make it happen.'”
Pedro went on to shine at Watford, eventually earning a £30 million move to Brighton in the summer of 2023.
Brighton to Newcastle: A Bigger Price Tag This Time
Pedro has impressed since joining Brighton & Hove Albion, notching up 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances across competitions. His form has not gone unnoticed, with Newcastle among several clubs monitoring his situation.
However, any deal would require a significant outlay. Reports claim Brighton now value the 23-year-old at around £59 million, nearly double what they paid for him just two years ago.
One potential complication is Pedro’s desire to lead the line as a first-choice striker, something that may not be guaranteed at Newcastle unless Alexander Isak departs.
Howe Hints at Busy Transfer Window Ahead
With Newcastle securing Champions League qualification and lifting their first domestic trophy in 56 years, manager Eddie Howe is preparing for an aggressive summer in the transfer market.
“Difficult to say on numbers, but I do think it’s a window that we have to be active in and I’m sure we will be,” Howe told reporters.
“We haven’t recruited strongly in three windows… eventually, that catches up with you. Change is important for the squad dynamic.”
Newcastle’s long-term admiration for Pedro, coupled with their need for attacking reinforcements, suggests the Magpies may be willing to invest — especially if their top striker options shift during the window.
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