Former Newcastle United midfielder has confirmed that Newcastle United made more than one bid for Joao Pedro over the summer.
The 32-year-old currently plays alongside Pedro at Watford, describing the forward as a “top player” who has privately been backed to make Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad by Hornets boss Slaven Bilic.
Speaking to The Chronicle, Gosling admits that he was relieved to see us go for Alexander Isak instead, with the Swedish international signing at St James’ Park just days after our final bid for the Pedro was rejected.
Gosling – who played under Eddie Howe at Bournemouth – adds that the 21-year-old has Champions League ambitions and “wants to go to the very top”, but hopes Newcastle’s don’t reignite their interest in January.
That said, recent reports have suggested we may do exactly that, with Football Insider revealing earlier this week that we have continued to watch the Brazilian – suggesting Isak’s arrival has NOT ended our interest.
Here’s what the former Mag told The Chronicle when asked about our interest in the South American:
“Joao is a top player. He’s someone so young but with the awareness and presence he’s got, he’s already a real player now and he will only excel in a couple of years.
“I heard the gaffer [Slaven Bilic] talking about the 2026 World Cup and I can see it. He’s really important for us.”
“I knew about the speculation, I knew all about that. There was firm interest, bids going in, so I was just praying. I was glad [Alexander] Isak went. That stopped the Joao move to be honest.
“You never know in the future, but hopefully not in January. Joao wants to go to the very top and play in the Champions League.
“I’m sure sooner or later that the club (Newcastle) is going to be another one in the conversation.”
