Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion
Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion
Newcastle United's interest in Joao Pedro has sent a clear signal of intent for the summer transfer window. Far from being caught on their heels over Bryan Mbeumo's decision to opt for a move to Manchester United, the Magpies are looking to seize the initiative.
Eddie Howe has a strong list of candidates on his transfer wishlist, and after trying to get a deal over the line for Joao Pedro in 2022, could now finally get his man.
The interest in the Brighton forward indicates a potential shift in United's summer transfer business. Newcastle have targetted a centre-back, a right-sided forward and a goalkeeper, with a back-up striker for option and midfield reinforcements also on the agenda.
Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehii is thought to remain the No 1 defensive target with a bid of around £50m likely to persuade Palace to cash in on the England star. United will face competition from the likes of Spurs, but there is a confidence they can get their man.
After missing out on Ipswich's Liam Delap and Brentford's Mbuemo, United have turned their attentions to Joao Pedro to strengthen their forward line. The Brazilian is more of a No 10 then a right winger, but is versatile to play across the frontline.
Whether this means United are moving away from their originail strategy remains to be seen, but it would give Howe a plethora of forward options who can play in a variety of roles. The United head coach could pick from Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Jacob Murphy, Joao Pedro and Will Osula, giving him the flexibility to switch his formation.
The questions arise when it comes to the transfer fee. Brighton will likely demand around £60m for the forward, which could take United's spending over the £100m mark if they manage to secure a deal for Guehi.
Add in a reported £30m for goalkeeper target James Trafford of Burnley and United could have little further room for manoeuvre.
Funds can be raised through player sales, with interest in Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff, although both will need to be replaced should they be sold. Skpper Jamaal Lascelles could also find his path to the first team further blocked by Guehi, while Nick Pope's future will come into question if Trafford arrives.
The task of finding a back-up striker for Isak is nigh-on impossible without taking something of a gamble. Goal don't come cheap, but identify young talent who will be willing to play a secondary role to the Swede while having the ability to step into the first team is not any easy job.
But in Joao Pedro, Newcastle may have decided on a compromise which gives Howe the options he wants ahead of a challenging season with the demands of Champions League football ahead.
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