Newcastle United face competition in their pursuit of Brighton forward Joao Pedro.
Chelsea are reportedly set to challenge Newcastle United for wantaway Brighton star Joao Pedro.
Various sources in recent days have linked the Blues with a move for the 23-year-old. NewcastleWorld understands the Magpies have firm interest in Pedro and the player is keen on leaving the Amex.
Toon chiefs targeted the forward three years ago - shortly after the Saudi-backed takeover - before a deal broke down. Newcastle changed tack and signed Alexander Isak for a club-record £63million.
Newcastle United renew Joao Pedro interest
However, the Magpies have renewed their interest, with Brighton thought to value Pedro at £70million despite just 10 goals across all competitions last season. His versatility is admired, with the Brazilian capable of operating as a striker, No.10 or out wide.
Callum Wilson is also approaching a St James’ Park exit that would leave Newcastle short of cover for Isak. Will Osula is an option but still viewed as a raw prospect for the future.
Fabrizio Romano drops Joao Pedro update
Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Chelsea’s interest is genuine. He told his YouTube channel: “Joao Pedro is going to leave - expected to leave. He is open to leaving Brighton in the summer transfer window. Let’s see what happens with the clubs.
“Newcastle already tried to sign Joao Pedro before he joined Brighton. A deal was done verbally but it collapsed for different reasons. Now he remains a player on the list of the recruitment team at Newcastle.
“They want Joao Pedro at Newcastle. They made contact with Brighton, as was reported in England in recent days, but there is still no club-to-club agreement. What I can confirm is Joao Pedro is on Chelsea’s list.
“He is highly rated by Chelsea. They see him as an interesting option because he can cover different positions and knows the league. He can be a different option for the squad. For sure, Joao Pedro is a name on their list.”
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Brighton teammate drops Chelsea hint
Brighton defender Igor Julio dropped a hint last week that his teammate may prefer a move to London. He said: “Joao Pedro had already told Brighton some time ago that his desire was to leave, look for new things and take the next step.
“It seems it will be difficult and complicated for him to stay here, we have to be honest, the club already knows that he said in contact with the report via video call. I told him that he has to think about what he wants from his career.
“In my opinion, if I were going to a Big Six team, I would go to a team that competes in the Premier League, plays in the Champions League and is always in a position to win. I would go to a Liverpool team and I think he would fit in perfectly at Liverpool.
“It's because I've always dreamed of playing for Liverpool and I would go there. He always told me that he really wants to live in London, so I think he will prioritise what comes from there first.”
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