Newcastle United have one of the best strikers in the world in Alexander Isak, but are aware that he needs more competition.
That is why the Magpies are aiming to sign a striker this summer, with Newcastle interested in Liam Delap.
They are speaking to the 22-year-old about a move to St James’ Park, and Newcastle may have received a Delap boost following Manchester United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Newcastle United still face an uphill battle to sign Delap.
All the while, another striker who they came narrowly close to signing in 2022 is looking to move clubs.
Fabrizio Romano shares Joao Pedro transfer update
The player in question is Brighton number nine Joao Pedro.
Newcastle nearly signed Pedro for £30million from Watford in 2022, with Fabrizio Romano stating that a deal was set to be finalised.
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
However, the transfer collapsed as Newcastle bought Isak instead. He became Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever, costing £63million.
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Pedro joined Brighton for £30million one year later, but could now be on his way out of the Amex Stadium.
That is according to Fabrizio Romano, who has spoken about Pedro’s future on his YouTube channel.
“The information I can tell you is that Joao Pedro is seriously considering leaving Brighton in the summer transfer window,” he said.
“There is a strong and concrete possibility to see the player leaving this summer. The player is now open to a new opportunity. There are several clubs looking for that kind of player. There is concrete interest in Pedro. Let’s see what happens with Brighton.”
Romano added: “For Joao Pedro, let’s see what the price tag is going to be. Something around €70million (£59million), but this will be up to Brighton. The interest in Joao Pedro is there from several clubs, from [Manchester] United, to Liverpool, to Arsenal, to Chelsea. Also Newcastle were interested in Joao Pedro a few years ago before he joined Brighton.”
Newcastle proven right about Joao Pedro but fresh Eddie Howe swoop is unlikely
Romano believes that Pedro’s value has doubled since leaving Watford.
The 23-year-old has played very well for the Seagulls, proving exactly why Newcastle United wanted to bring him to Tyneside.
The Brazilian forward has netted 30 goals in 70 games for Brighton, and now has even bigger clubs chasing his signature.
Newcastle’s previous interest in Pedro has been justified, and now the Magpies have a chance to make a fresh move.
He would provide the competition for Isak that Howe is looking for, while he is also capable of operating slightly deeper as an attacking midfielder.
However, a fresh approach for Pedro from Newcastle United would come as a huge surprise. Almost £60million would be a huge amount of money to commit towards another striker, with the Magpies also in the market for a centre-back, winger and goalkeeper.
In truth, the only realistic possibility of Newcastle trying to sign Pedro again would be if Isak left St James’ Park. That is not part of the club’s summer plan, with Newcastle telling Isak he is staying ahead of talks over a contract extension.