If a report from The iPaper is believed to be true, Newcastle United are eyeing another prolific ‘number 9’ and have serious interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro, alongside Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea are also in the mix for Delap, considering his £30m release clause in the wake of the Tractor Boys’ relegation from the Premier League. This could shift the Magpies’ focus on the Seagulls ace, thanks to a £250m transfer war chest for making it to next season’s Champions League. Pedro will potentially cost double the amount they have to pay for the Ipswich sensation, but the aforementioned financial boost should see them secure the services of the 23-year-old Brazilian.
The Selecao international progressed through Fluminense’s academy ranks and was already tied down by Watford months before his senior debut for the iconic Rio de Janeiro side. He eventually joined the Hornets in January 2020 and played more than 100 times across the Premier League and EFL Championship.
Brighton snapped him up for a fee of around £30m a couple of summers ago, and the youngster proved to be an instant success, having notched 30 goals and laid on 10 more in 70 outings over the past two seasons. Besides featuring as a centre-forward, Pedro has exhibited his efficiency as a ‘False 9’, wide attacker and a ‘number 10’.
Why Newcastle United Must Snap Up The Brazilian
Although a few suitors were testing the water for Alexander Isak, the Swedish hitman will stay put at Tyneside following the assurance of Champions League football. However, the Geordies need someone to share the load up front, with Callum Wilson’s future looking uncertain beyond June.
The club opted against handing him an extension and offered an incentive-based contract to remain at St James’ Park. Even if he decides to continue his Newcastle stint, Eddie Howe must not rely on the 33-year-old Englishman, who is way past his prime and saw his minutes reduced throughout the campaign due to form and fitness reasons. William Osula also struggled for game time since his summer move from Sheffield United and should only be viewed as a sporadic option if not loaned out or offloaded on permanent terms.
A lack of squad depth did not trouble Newcastle United much, as they could not make it to Europe in 2024. However, the Toon will now compete in the most prestigious tournament and push for quality additions to challenge the European heavyweights, along with a strong Premier League run. Signing Pedro would strengthen the League Cup winners high up the pitch, thus allowing Howe to make tactical alterations by bringing the Brazilian’s flexibility into play.
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