Everton have had a bid rejected for Watford attacker Joao Pedro, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Great start in England...

After an impressive run during the 2021/22 season for which he was praised as ‘one of the best young players in the Premier League’ by Claudio Ranieri, the 20-year-old has kickstarted the Championship campaign with two goals and two assists in the Hornets’ opening six games.

The centre-forward has now made 44 appearances in the Championship and 31 appearances in the Premier League after an impressive debut campaign with Fluminense earned him his £10.35m move to Watford back in 2020.

The Latest: Romano’s news

Among heavy interest from Newcastle, Romano has shared an update on the speculation surrounding Pedro, revealing Everton have made an official move.

Taking to Twitter, the reliable journalist said:

“Everton submitted a formal bid on Wednesday for João Pedro: £25m plus £5m add-ons. Watford have rejected and have no intention to let him go.”

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/everton-news-7/" title="Everton news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

The Verdict: Great potential

Also hailed as an ‘intelligent player’ by former Watford boss Ranieri, the Brazilian’s underlying stats illustrate why this would be an exciting move for Everton fans.

As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the attacker ranks in the top one percent for dribbles completed, interceptions and blocks made, displaying valuable abilities on both sides of the ball.

Dubbed as having ‘obvious flair and talent’ by Mike Parkin, presenter of Watford fan podcast From The Rookery End, it is clear Pedro has huge potential to fulfil.

Therefore, if Lampard can lure him to Goodison Park, this could be a brilliant long-term signing for the Toffees.