An emerging report from 90min has revealed that ‘a number’ of Premier League clubs have made contact with Watford regarding the situation surrounding Joao Pedro.
Pedro looks set to join Newcastle United before the September 1st deadline next week.
A £30million bid is on the table and Keith Downie says an agreement is ‘quite close’, but the Magpies could yet face some late competition for the striker.
90min say that a number of Premier League teams have made contact with Watford regarding a move for Pedro, including Everton, Leeds United, Leicester City, Nottingham Forest and Wolves.
Interestingly, 90min’s report reiterated the fact that Watford initially wanted £35million for Pedro, but that Newcastle have only put £30million on the table, so there’s potential scope for another team to come in with an offer that meets Watford’s valuation of the youngster.
Both 90min and Downie say that the Magpies are confident of sealing a deal for Pedro, and that Pedro himself is keen to join Eddie Howe’s side.
But we’re still waiting on a full agreement to move into place and so for the likes of Everton, Leeds, Leicester, Nottingham Forest and Wolves, there’s still potential to come into the race to sign Pedro.
A testing week ahead…
The September 1st transfer deadline is quickly gaining upon us. For Watford, the days between now and then could be testing and for Newcastle too, with the race for Pedro seemingly open as it stands.
Watford might test the waters a bit and wait to see if any other club can come in with an offer – the offer wouldn’t have to exceed Newcastle United’s £30million, but if a bid can at least match it then it could drive the final price tag closer to that £35million valuation.
If not, then Watford can take this £30million and potentially look to bring someone in during the final days of the window.
Expect the Hornets to have a shortlist of names who they could look at should Pedro seal his move to St James’ Park, but whether the club will have time to make a deal happen remains to be seen.
