Newcastle United Renew Interest in 23-Year-Old Brazilian Star João Pedro Following Failed 2023 Move

 

Newcastle United are once again revisiting past transfer targets as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of another intense season in European competition. One name that has resurfaced is Brazilian forward João Pedro, currently at Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Magpies have built a reputation for persistence in the transfer market, often returning for players they previously failed to secure. This summer is no different. After rekindling interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi—another player they missed out on during a high-profile saga last year—Newcastle are now being heavily linked with a fresh pursuit of João Pedro, according to a report from Sky Sports.

Newcastle originally attempted to sign João Pedro in 2023 and came very close to sealing the deal. Talks had progressed far enough to the point where a medical was reportedly scheduled. However, the deal fell apart at the last minute, and Pedro instead made the switch to Brighton, while Newcastle went on to secure Swedish striker Alexander Isak. In hindsight, Isak has proven to be a stellar acquisition, but that hasn’t stopped the club from reigniting their interest in Pedro.

Now 23, João Pedro has continued to grow and impress in the Premier League, scoring 10 goals in 27 appearances during the 2024–25 campaign. However, his season was cut slightly short due to a three-match ban following a red card for violent conduct in a match against Brentford. Although he served the suspension, Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler opted not to include him in the final two fixtures of the season.

Despite the disciplinary hiccup, João Pedro remains a key figure at Brighton, and Hürzeler is reportedly eager to keep him at the club. This could present a challenge for Newcastle, who would likely need to make a significant offer to convince Brighton to part ways with one of their top assets.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle view Pedro as a potential long-term replacement for veteran striker Callum Wilson, whose departure from St James’ Park this summer appears increasingly likely. Importantly, the club is adamant that Pedro would not be a replacement for Alexander Isak, but rather a complement. The vision is to have both forwards operating together in a dynamic and potent front line.

The idea of João Pedro and Alexander Isak leading the attack is an exciting prospect for Newcastle supporters. Pedro’s technical skill, creativity, and movement would offer a different dimension to the team’s offense, while Isak’s pace and finishing have already made him a fan favorite.

It’s clear that João Pedro has come a long way since his move from Watford to Brighton. Newcastle fans can’t help but wonder what might have been had the original 2023 deal gone through. Still, with Isak in the ranks and the potential addition of Pedro on the horizon, the Magpies may yet enjoy the best of both worlds.

As Newcastle prepare for another campaign in the Champions League, bolstering the squad with young, high-potential talent like João Pedro would be a statement of intent. It won’t be easy, but if the club can pull it off, they’ll have one of the most exciting attacking duos in English football.