Newcastle United’s summer transfer strategy has hit a major obstacle as top attacking target Joao Pedro appears to favor a move to a London club, raising a doubt over the Magpies’ long-standing interest.
The 23-year-old Brighton forward, once a heartbeat away from joining Newcastle during Watford’s 2022 relegation, is now seemingly looking southward, and a revived pursuit by the Tyneside club, who are eager to bolster their squad ahead of another European campaign, has been rocked by public comments made by Pedro’s Brighton teammate and fellow Brazilian, Igor Julio.
Speaking to Brazilian outlet Trivela, Julio revealed, “Joao Pedro had already told Brighton some time ago that his desire was to leave, look for new things, and take the next step.”
He added, “It seems it will be difficult and complicated for him to stay here; we have to be honest, the club already knows that.”
Brighton are demanding around £70 million for Pedro, who just scored 10 goals last season but remains valued for his ability to play multiple roles in attack. Still, the Seagulls are known for extracting top dollar, just as they did with Moises Caicedo and Marc Cucurella.
However, Newcastle’s ownership has shown reluctance to overspend and now finds itself at odds with Brighton’s high valuation and Pedro’s London preference.
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Julio claims Pedro wants to move to London and hints at a Liverpool fit.
Julio shared that Pedro always wanted to live a life in London and also shared what he would have done if he had been in his place.
“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 prioritize what comes from there first.”
Pedro has 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 Brighton appearances. With Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham reportedly monitoring him, Newcastle may be forced to pivot quickly.
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