Newcastle United are very keen to sign Joao Pedro, but his arrival would not be good news for everyone at St James’ Park.
Joao Pedro is Newcastle United’s top target right now, as Eddie Howe aims to strengthen his squad ahead of returning to the Champions League.
Signing the 23-year-old would do exactly that, with Pedro open to joining Newcastle United after missing out on that opportunity in 2022. He would arrive as competition for Alexander Isak, who the Magpies signed ahead of Pedro three years ago.
Bringing Pedro in would be great news for Isak, as the Sweden international needs better cover. A deal would also delight Howe, as Pedro has the versatility that Newcastle need.
Brighton attacker Joao Pedro runs with the ball against Bournemouth.
Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images
Newcastle United eye Joao Pedro deal ahead of Callum Wilson contract decision
However, one person who could be negatively affected by Pedro heading to Tyneside is Callum Wilson.
According to the Athletic, Newcastle’s decision to sign a forward will be ‘partly’ dependent on the future of Wilson.
His contract expires at the end of June, with Newcastle in talks with Wilson over signing a new deal.
The Athletic add that Newcastle are figuring out whether they can afford a striker and a winger. Regardless of whether or not that is the case, the benefit of signing Pedro is that he can cover both positions.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
Geordie Boot Boys understand that Pedro is willing to play on the right for Newcastle, as well as a central striker.
Newcastle United have to let Callum Wilson go
If Newcastle opt to sign Pedro then they can afford to let Wilson go. They will have the cover they require through the middle, while Pedro’s ability to play out wide would mean it was not the end of the world if an out-and-out right winger did not arrive at St James’ Park this summer.
In an ideal world, Newcastle sign Pedro and a winger, but the limitations of PSR will make that difficult to do financially.
Whether Newcastle make it work or not, it is time for Callum Wilson to embark on a fresh challenge. The £20million attacker has been outstanding in black and white, but is no longer as influential as he once was.
The 33-year-old struggled when called upon last season, scoring just one goal. All the while, Will Osula looks poised to overtake him in the pecking order.
While discussing an incentivised deal with Wilson is sensible from Newcastle United, it would come as a shock if the number nine remains at the club beyond this month.