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Newcastle: Magpies considering approach for Joao Pedro
Newcastle United are considering an approach to sign Watford striker Joao Pedro in January, according to reports in the last 48 hours.
The Lowdown: Summer bid rejected
The Premier League side made a £30m plus add-ons offer for the 21-year-old over the summer but saw that rejected by the Hornets who viewed him as a key player in their push for promotion.
The Brazilian still has a solid six years remaining on his contract at Vicarage Road after recently signing a new deal so it could be difficult to prise him away, though the Magpies seem ready to take a second bite at the cherry.
The Latest: Newcastle monitoring Pedro
According to Football Insider, PIF and Newcastle hold a ‘concrete’ interest in Pedro and have been ‘closely monitoring’ him as they ‘weigh up’ another move in the winter market.
Eddie Howe’s side are said to regard the forward as a ‘top talent’ who they believe has the ability to flourish at the highest level which explains why they aren’t giving up the chase.
The Verdict: Wood replacement?
Chris Wood has reportedly been made available for sale in the New Year after failing to make an impact so Pedro could be an impressive replacement.
Described as ‘elegant’ by Jacek Kulig, the attacker has scored 19 goals and provided seven assists during his time in the second tier and offers versatility having operated in four different positions (Transfermarkt).
Watford are currently in the Championship playoff places, though if for any reason they suffer a serious decline or setback in their top-six pursuit, Pedro could be tempted to look in the direction of St. James’ Park in 2023.
