In the last few days, following a slow start to the opening week of the summer window, Newcastle finally look to be showing signs of life in the transfer market.
After the disappointment of missing out on Liam Delap, and likely losing the race for Bryan Mbeumo, renewed interest in Anthony Elanga and Joao Pedro was reported over the weekend, with the club opening discussions over a move for the attacking duo.
Wanting to act quickly in the transfer market was one of Eddie Howe’s top priorities, and if the latest developments come to fruition, it seems a certain club are already preparing for Pedro’s departure..
A £34m sign Joao Pedro is heading for exit?
Based on reports last night, it seems Brighton may be planning for life without Joao Pedro.
Not only has Fabrizio Romano declared that the 23-year-old old is ‘expected to leave’, with ‘movements taking place’ to see him depart, the Seagulls have now been busy bidding for what could turn out to be the Brazilian’s replacement.
According to Sky Sports, Brighton have just launched a £34m bid for Olympiacos striker Charalampos Kostoulas, with the Greek youngster reportedly very open to the move.
Considering Brighton have Danny Welbeck, Evan Ferguson and Georginio Rutter as forward options alongside Pedro, it makes you wonder if the bid has been made with Pedro’s impending exit in mind?
Potential hurdles to Pedro deal
Pedro could be an ideal fit if Howe is hoping to benefit from his versatility and look to play him just off Alexander Isak in a potential formation change next season.
However, there are still a couple issues that may prove to be stumbling blocks in negotiations, even if the former Watford star is keen to sign.
First being the price: Fabian Hurzeler’s side reportedly value their player in excess of £60m – certainly a Premier League premium, and potentially more than what we paid for Isak and Tonali.
Then there’s Chelsea’s interest. Having already snapped up Liam Delap, they are in the market for another forward and we all know they are happy to splash the cash; on transfer fees and wages.
As we’ve seen from the past few windows, Brighton know they have a reliable buyer who will happily overspend in the Blues, something which we may not be able to compete should Enzo Maresca’s side ditch a rumoured move and pursue Pedro instead.
Sorry to burst your bubble but he’s a youngster and Brightons plans are to buy young and make profit. Pedro maybe going but not for £60 mill as Brighton value him much higher and don’t have to sell.
Glen James(Quote)
And we can buy better cheaper on the continent
PremAndUp(Quote)
We will bring in players and some surprises no doubt, best to ignore most of these articles from the so called experts. Hwtl
Kiddafromthetoon(Quote)
Hopefully this is us pushing the price up for a player we don’t want, ensuring Chelsea pay over the odds for fee and wages.
I keep saying it, but 10 goals from open play in 2 Premier League seasons. He’s nowhere near good enough.
Still, if we are unfortunate enough to sign him, I believe the number 15 shirt is free. I can’t think of a better squad number for him, and if you don’t get why, put Joao Pedro 15 into your choice of search engine – all will become clear!
Ian(Quote)
Why oh why is Newcastle going to first in the que buying player sand not see Chelsea go and buy every player that the toon have scout it and oh why is every thing conneted to the toon complicated and eddy has got the other job he wanted the one Mitchel never had so come on over to you the dangerous duo
RINTINTIN(Quote)
To repeat my earlier comment, my Brighton contact says we can do better than Pedro
davewallace(Quote)
Pedro is a talent, temperamental but a talent, I’ve watched him for 2 years at the Amex, he would draw defenders and create a lot of space for Isak. I hope he stays at the Amex but think he’ll be sold, better to lose him than Mitoma.
Paul Baker(Quote)