An update has arrived on Newcastle’s ongoing pursuit of Joao Pedro this afternoon.
After reporting last week that the club were stepping up their interest in the Brazilian, [The Telegraph’s](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/06/13/newcastle-joao-pedro-pursuit-believe-deal-imminent/) Luke Edwards has now revealed that Newcastle have opened formal talks with Brighton over a deal.
He reports that both parties are now looking to negotiate a deal that would see the 23-year-old become the club’s first major signing of the summer.
A rough figure of £60m has been suggested and there is ‘growing confidence’ that an agreement will be reached, with Newcastle hoping a ‘suitable deal can be thrashed out quickly.’
Speed could be key to fend off potential rival interest, with Luke Edwards hinting over the weekend that London interest from the likes of Chelsea could emerge.
It’s believed Newcastle have received encouragement that Pedro would be keen to sign at St James’ Park and is now our ‘priority target’ after the club pulled out of the race to sign Bryan Mbeumo due to his extortionate wage demands.
Pedro has scored 30 goals and created 10 over the last two seasons at Brighton, although almost 50% of those strikes have come from the penalty spot.
He could be a valuable asset, however, with the South American a long-term target who would bring versatility, pace, power and technical ability to our squad.