If the rumour mill surrounding Newcastle’s transfer targets is to be believed, there a number of names continue to be linked with potential moves – despite recent ‘blows’ regarding Liam Delap and Bryan Mbeumo.
From Marc Guehi to James Trafford, Eddie Howe and the club hierarchy appear keen to go back in for long-term targets.
On that note, another has been linked in Brighton’s Joao Pedro, with Sky Sports revealing yesterday that we are keen to bring in the Brazilian after attempting to buy him from Watford two years ago.
However, a move will not be simple, as explained below in an update on our pursuit of the versatile forward.
According to Sky Sports, Joao Pedro is a Newcastle United target – but he’s asking for something Eddie Howe may be unable to offer.
They report that the Brazilian ‘would only consider a move to a club where he was first-choice striker’, stating that this could be a ‘stumbling block to any deal.’
As we know, Newcastle are looking to bolster their front line this summer, with Callum Wilson out of contract and another striker wanted to compete with Alexander Isak ahead of our return to the Champions League.
However, Isak’s presence could be an issue if Pedro will only join a club where he’ll be first choice, although his versatility and ability to play wide or in an advanced midfield role may increase his chances of regular game time on Tyneside.
Newcastle are interested in Brighton forward Joao Pedro ⚫⚪
Sky Sports News has been told Pedro would only consider a move to a club where he was first-choice striker, which could be a stumbling block to any deal. 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/Nh7UJVRwMV
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) June 3, 2025
Joao Pedro is highly valued for his versatility, being able to play in a number of attacking roles, much like former target Matheus Cunha.
So over the coming weeks of the window, you’d hope we can still sell him a move to St James’ Park, even if he is not guaranteed to lead the line every week.
A move away from Brighton could be a win/win for all parties involved: we add much needed depth to our attack, Pedro’s chances of playtime remain high, and Brighton earn a quick profit on a player who missed out on their squad on the final day of 2024/25.
The issue could be their asking price, if not Pedro’s striker demands. The Seagulls are tough sellers and have every right to demand big money. But, will Newcastle really pay beyond £50m given our top priorities may be spending big on a right-winger and centre-back?