Personal terms agreed: Newcastle bypass club and agree terms with star, bid coming next
Newcastle Leapfrog Chelsea in Pursuit of £60 Million Premier League Star as Transfer Momentum Builds
Newcastle United are reportedly stepping up their summer transfer activity in a major way, as they now lead the race ahead of Chelsea to secure the signature of a £60 million-rated Premier League forward. According to fresh reports, the Magpies are not only preparing an official bid for the player but have already reached a verbal agreement on personal terms, signaling serious intent as they look to bolster their attack for the new campaign.
Newcastle Step Up Attacking Plans Amid Limited Summer Business
Eddie Howe’s side have so far had a quiet summer window, with just one confirmed addition to the squad. Spanish winger Antonio Cordero is set to join Newcastle at the beginning of July on a free transfer after his contract with Malaga expired. While Cordero is viewed as a long-term prospect, he is unlikely to be the headline signing of the summer, with the club clearly targeting more experienced and high-profile reinforcements to elevate their squad depth and quality—especially with Champions League football on the horizon.
Alongside their interest in bolstering the frontline, Newcastle are also actively seeking to strengthen their defensive ranks. The Magpies have reportedly initiated talks over a potential move for AS Roma’s Evan Ndicka, a versatile central defender who could offer a cost-effective alternative to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, another key defensive target.
Newcastle Plot Ambitious Moves for Mohammed Kudus and Marcus Rashford
In addition to defensive additions, Newcastle are intent on injecting more creativity and firepower into their forward line. One such target is West Ham United’s dynamic attacker Mohammed Kudus, who is reportedly available this summer. Internal discussions have already taken place within St James’ Park regarding Kudus, who impressed in his debut Premier League season and could add pace, flair, and technical prowess to Howe’s attack.
However, perhaps the most surprising development is Newcastle’s interest in a season-long loan deal for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford. The England international endured a turbulent 2024/25 campaign at Old Trafford, with his future now uncertain. While United are reportedly leaning towards a permanent sale rather than another loan, Newcastle’s offer of Champions League football may present a tempting lifeline for Rashford if a compromise can be reached.
Joao Pedro Emerges as Priority Target – Newcastle Pull Ahead of Chelsea
The clearest indication of Newcastle’s transfer ambitions, however, lies in their latest move for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro. As per Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte, the Magpies have surged ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign the highly-rated Brazilian forward. Personal terms between Pedro and Newcastle have reportedly already been agreed, giving them the upper hand, although Chelsea remain interested and are preparing a rival offer of their own.
Pedro, who scored 10 goals in 27 Premier League appearances during the 2024/25 campaign, is seen as one of the league’s brightest attacking talents. Despite his solid form, a reported fallout with Brighton’s coaching staff has led to the belief that he could depart the south coast club this summer. Brighton are understood to be holding out for a fee in the region of £60 million—a valuation that Newcastle appear willing to meet as they seek to beat their top-six rivals to his signature.
Perfect Fit for Howe’s System and a Potential Partner for Isak
While some may interpret Newcastle’s pursuit of Pedro as a sign that they’re planning for life without star striker Alexander Isak, the reality is likely more nuanced. Joao Pedro’s versatility—capable of playing as a central striker, wide forward, or even as a number 10—makes him an ideal complement to Isak, rather than a replacement. Howe is known to value tactical flexibility in his forward line, and Pedro’s movement, work rate, and technical quality would allow Newcastle to switch formations and strategies with ease.
Pedro has now delivered back-to-back strong seasons in England’s top flight, and a move to Tyneside could provide the perfect platform for him to take the next step in his career. Playing in the Champions League and under a manager like Howe, who has a track record of improving young players, could prove pivotal in his development.
Conclusion: Newcastle’s Statement of Intent
With just weeks to go until the new season begins, Newcastle United appear determined to make a major statement in the transfer market. By pushing ahead of Chelsea in the race for Joao Pedro, weighing a move for Rashford, and remaining active on multiple fronts, the Magpies are showing the ambition and strategic clarity needed to compete among England’s elite.
If they can secure the Brazilian’s signature, it would not only be a coup over a direct Premier League rival but also a clear signal of their desire to challenge on both domestic and European fronts in 2025.