BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 14: Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion during the UEFA Europa League match between Brighton & Hove Albion v Olympique de Marseille at American Express Community Stadium on December 14, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Newcastle are in an advantageous position in the summer transfer window after qualifying for the Champions League in one of the club’s most successful seasons.
It was reported on Sunday that manager Eddie Howe attended a recruitment meeting straight after the defeat to Everton to discuss the plans and strategy ahead.
The Magpies had to rely on Manchester United’s victory over Aston Villa to meet their ambitious goal of upgrading their European experience next season, but they will now just be glad that fortune fell in their favour.
All focus is now on the summer of recruitment ahead of them, an opportunity to bring in new additions that can add quality and depth to their already impressive first team.
Strengthening the attacking threat will be a high priority for the Geordies as they attempt to improve and increase their goal contributions across the front three.
Swedish striker Alexander Isak is expected to remain at the club despite heavy speculation surrounding his future, however, his position competitor Callum Wilson has his future on Tyneside hanging in the balance as reports suggest he will be offered a new redefined contract and not an extension on his current deal.
It is unclear as to whether Wilson will accept a new deal at Newcastle with several clubs interested in his services for next season, but the club won’t rest on their laurels with fresh claims on potential replacements.
According to iNews journalist Mark Douglas, Newcastle are targeting a move for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro this summer and have serious interest in securing his signature.
The Brazil international is named as one of the players that the club believe can help with their desire to evolve the attacking threat, that currently relies on a majority of goal contributions coming from lone striker Isak.
Should Newcastle sign Joao Pedro?
There is no doubt that Pedro possesses the quality and Premier League experience to offer Newcastle a proven goal-scorer that could provide Isak with a valuable strike partner.
Over 27 Premier League appearances, the 23-year-old – hailed “superb” by former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer – has scored ten goals, registered six assists and created 11 big chances, with notable strengths in positioning, penalty taking and high pressing.
Newcastle have had huge success with Brazilian players in recent years, as both Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton have thrived under the guidance and tactics of Howe and now Pedro could be the latest to benefit from his coaching.
Depending on how Newcastle want to play, the Brighton star has the ability to adapt his positioning with a wealth of experience in the second striker role, as well as on the left wing over his career so far.
It is believed that Brighton will command a fee of £59m to part ways with their talented forward this summer, which would be a large investment for the Magpies but could be worth it if they can get the very best out of him alongside Isak.
With that being said, Pedro will definitely be one to keep an eye on for Newcastle supporters this summer, especially if the club are serious about adapting their attacking threat for next season.
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