Newcastle United have already experienced the wrath of Chelsea during the 2025 summer transfer window.
Liam Delap chose to sign for Chelsea, despite holding talks over a £30million move to St James’ Park. Delap snubbed Newcastle United, forcing Eddie Howe to take his striker search elsewhere.
The Magpies have turned their attention to Joao Pedro. The 23-year-old is back on Howe’s radar and it has been reported that Pedro is interested in joining Newcastle United.
That might not be his only choice though, with Chelsea also showing an interest in Pedro as they target yet another striker after the acquisition of Delap.
Brighton attacker runs with the ball during a Premier League game against Brentford.
Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport via Getty Images
Newcastle United ahead of Chelsea to sign Joao Pedro
Alarm bells have been ringing on Tyneside as Chelsea target another player that Newcastle United want to sign. Thankfully, the Magpies might have the advantage on this occasion.
That is according to the i Paper, who report that Newcastle United ‘have the edge’ over Chelsea in the race to sign Pedro from Brighton.
Given Newcastle’s recent history in the transfer market with Chelsea, that is a huge boost for Howe.
However, it will count for nothing if the Magpies are not able to agree a fee with the Seagulls. Brighton paid £30million for Pedro in 2023 and will aim to at least double their money. Geordie Boot Boys understand that Brighton’s initial asking price is £70million, but Newcastle will hope to get him for less than that.
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How Newcastle United feel about signing Joao Pedro
Three years after initially missing out, Newcastle United are eager to ensure they do not miss out for much longer. Pedro wanted to join Newcastle in 2022, and now he could get that opportunity in 2025.
João Pedro to Newcastle, done deal and here we go! Full agreement as Watford have now accepted final, official bid worth £25m fixed fee, £5m add-ons. 🚨⚪️⚫️🇧🇷 #NUFC
Deal will also include sell-on clause for 10%. Personal terms already, as been told contract will be until 2028. pic.twitter.com/MejBeGtHQO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2022
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The Magpies’ feelings on Pedro have not changed. If anything, Howe has been proven right about the forward by how well he has done for Brighton.
The i Paper add that Newcastle United believe Pedro has a ‘very high’ ceiling, with the attacker boasting so much scope to get even better. That will be music to the ears of Howe, who has proven to be the master when it comes to player improvement.
The only question mark surrounding Pedro is what his position in the team would be. He primarily plays as a central striker, whereas the Magpies already have Alexander Isak.
Thankfully for Newcastle, they may have an alternative plan. Geordie Boot Boys understand that Pedro is willing to play on the right of attack for Newcastle, which would allow Howe to accommodate him and Isak in the same XI.