Personal terms agreed: Newcastle bypass club and agree terms with star, bid coming next
Newcastle United Leapfrog Chelsea in Pursuit of £60 Million Star as Transfer Bid and Personal Terms Finalised
Newcastle United have taken a significant step forward in their pursuit of one of the summer’s most sought-after forwards, reportedly overtaking Chelsea in the race to sign a £60 million-rated star. According to a recent update, the Magpies have already agreed personal terms with the player and are now in the process of preparing an official bid to secure his services.
Eddie Howe Eyes Major Forward Reinforcements Amid Transfer Push
Manager Eddie Howe is intent on bolstering his attacking options ahead of the new season, especially as Newcastle look to bounce back stronger and compete more fiercely on all fronts, including their return to European competition. Despite a relatively quiet summer transfer window thus far, the club is expected to make some high-impact moves in the coming weeks.
So far, Newcastle’s only confirmed signing has been Antonio Cordero, a promising young winger who will officially join the squad in early July following the expiration of his contract with Spanish club Malaga. Although Cordero arrives on a free transfer, the Tyneside club are still very much active in the market and are linked with multiple big-name players as part of their wider recruitment strategy.
Newcastle Monitoring Rashford Situation Amid Search for Attacking Firepower
Among the names on Newcastle’s radar is Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, whose future at Old Trafford remains uncertain. Reports indicate that Rashford could be available for a season-long loan, and Newcastle have reportedly held internal discussions about the feasibility of bringing the England international to St. James’ Park.
The allure of Champions League football could be a key bargaining chip for Newcastle in any negotiations. However, it remains to be seen if Manchester United will entertain a loan move, as their preference is reportedly to sell Rashford outright this summer.
Interest in Defensive Reinforcements Continues
In addition to attacking targets, Newcastle are also actively searching for defensive reinforcements. The Magpies have been in contact with AS Roma regarding centre-back Evan Ndicka, while Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi also remains a prominent name on their shortlist. While Guehi could command a significant fee, Ndicka presents a more cost-effective alternative as the club evaluates its options at the back.
Joao Pedro Emerges as Priority Target with Bid Imminent
While the Rashford situation remains fluid, Newcastle appear to have shifted focus toward Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, a player who has impressed across the last two Premier League campaigns. Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte reports that Newcastle have now moved ahead of Chelsea in the pursuit of the 23-year-old, having already agreed personal terms with the player.
Pedro, who netted 10 goals in 27 Premier League appearances during the 2024/25 season, is understood to be valued at around £60 million by Brighton. However, his future at the club is now in doubt following reports of a breakdown in his relationship with the management—an issue that could expedite his departure during the summer transfer window.
Although Chelsea remain in contention and their renewed interest has reportedly “unsettled” Pedro, Newcastle appear determined to act swiftly and decisively. Both clubs are now preparing to table official bids, setting the stage for a potential bidding war.
Pedro Seen as Versatile Addition, Not Isak Replacement
While some may interpret Newcastle’s aggressive pursuit of Pedro as a sign that star striker Alexander Isak could be on the move, sources suggest otherwise. Pedro’s versatility—he can operate across the frontline and even in a deeper, creative role as a number 10—makes him an ideal complement to Isak rather than a replacement.
Newcastle’s coaching staff are said to be excited by Pedro’s flexibility and proven Premier League pedigree. His combination of technical skill, creativity, and work rate make him a strong candidate to thrive in Howe’s dynamic attacking setup.
Champions League Ambitions Drive Newcastle’s Transfer Plans
With Champions League football on the horizon, Newcastle are eager to build a squad capable of competing on the biggest stage. Joao Pedro, still only 23, could see a move to St. James’ Park as the next logical step in his development, offering the chance to test himself against Europe’s elite while also playing a key role in an ambitious, upwardly-mobile team.
If Newcastle are able to finalise the deal ahead of Chelsea, it would represent not only a major coup in terms of recruitment but also a statement of intent from a club aiming to challenge the Premier League’s traditional top four.