Newcastle United 'told to pay £30m for Joao Pedro'

Newcastle United will reportedly have to pay £30m if they want to sign Watford forward Joao Pedro this summer.

Having strengthened his squad with the additions of goalkeeper Nick Pope and defender Sven Botman, head coach Eddie Howe is now keen to make at least one attack-minded signing before the start of September.

With Callum Wilson and Chris Wood already at his disposal to feature down the middle of the attack, Howe may prefer to sign a player who can also deputise in a wide area.

Pedro would be able to offer that versatility, even if Howe may have his sights set on including the Brazilian in a more central area.

However, according to Football Insider, the Magpies have been informed that they will not finalise a deal for less than £30m.

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As it stands, it is unclear whether the Newcastle hierarchy will be prepared to meet that valuation with other targets on their shortlist.

Nevertheless, with the same outlet claiming that a £20m bid has already been made and rejected, it appears that Howe is a big admirer of the 20-year-old.

Pedro has been contracted to the Hornets since the start of 2020, contributing 14 goals and five assists from 77 appearances in all competitions.

Although the attacker contributed just three goals in 28 top-flight outings during 2021-22, one of those strikes came against Newcastle at St James' Park.

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Watford remain in a strong position with regards to the player's future with Pedro still having three years remaining on his contract at Vicarage Road.

However, it has been suggested in the past that the club's hierarchy will give the green light to a sale if they feel that they are maximising their profit on Pedro.

Even with the departure of Emmanuel Dennis to Nottingham Forest at the weekend, head coach Rob Edwards is well stocked for options down the middle of the attack.

Aston Villa loanee Keinan Davis has just joined Vakoun Issouf Bayo and Rey Manaj in competing with Pedro for a spot in the final third.