MusaNewcastle United have opened talks over Brighton striker Joao Pedro, but Eddie Howe must be mindful of recent comments from Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler.
The Magpies, who have spent barely a penny in the last three transfer windows, are set to be given the chance to splash the cash.
Newcastle United have quietly benefited from their PSG woes and are now on the other side of the table with more than £150m to spend this summer. Eddie Howe is keen to improve several positions at Newcastle this summer, with Joao Pedro identified as a potential addition to the attack.
It was reported on Monday that Newcastle had opened talks with Brighton over Pedro, with Howe valuing the Brazilian at around £60m. The 23-year-old is said to be keen to leave Brighton this summer and has already confirmed his intentions to let his teammates take over.
As Newcastle step up their pursuit of Pedro, Howe will have to listen to recent comments from Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler about his attitude, which he may not like.
Fabian Hurzeler speaks out on Joao Pedro’s behaviour during talks with Newcastle United
Not only can he play as a striker, Pedro is extremely versatile, which Howe will like. His chance creation statistics suggest he could play as a right-back if required, a position that is in desperate need of depth this summer.
Talks between the player and the club are ongoing, and reports suggest Newcastle and Brighton are on the same page about his valuation.
Newcastle may not be happy about the questions about his behaviour, however. Hurzeler accidentally reminded them of this at a press conference in May.
Speaking about Pedro, Hurzeler told Sussex World: “We had a little bit of an issue with Joao in training, which is not unusual at any football club. We have resolved it internally and it is closed.
“Joao is an incredible footballer, he is a match winner for us, he is a fantastic player and that is why we invested in him.
“But there are principles that are non-negotiable and that apply to everyone – that everyone has to adhere to – that we do not compromise on.”
Howe must also point out that Pedro’s discipline has also been questionable throughout the season, with the striker receiving seven yellow cards and a red card against Brentford in May. He was also sent off in the return leg against the Bees for elbowing a player off the ball.
Joao Pedro has the chance to settle at Newcastle United
After missing out on a move in 2022, Newcastle are now chasing Pedro again and are looking to complete a deal three years later.
Pedro admitted he was upset when his move to Newcastle fell through but was given the Premier League move he so desperately wanted a year later when Brighton came knocking. The Brazilian has had a great season in the Premier League, scoring goals and providing assists for his team-mates, but now feels it is time to move on.
Joao Pedro Premier League stats 2024/25
Appearances. 27
Goals. 10
Assists. 6
Howe has done a fantastic job of reviving Premier League players who have looked unhappy at their old clubs in the past. Anthony Gordon is a prime example of this. The winger struggled at Everton but has thrived on Tyneside after making a £45m move in January 2023.
The same could be true for Pedro if the deal goes through. The Brazilian could have a fresh start at a new club and benefit from the presence of Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton at the club.
Musa
Kwaghterna Garshagu
