Newcastle fear Chelsea will hijack Joao Pedro deal | OneFootball

Newcastle United fear that Chelsea could gazump them in the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, according to Alex Crook.

Pedro has reportedly asked to leave the Seagulls this summer, and the Magpies want to bring him to St. James’ Park.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is a long-time admirer and tried to sign him before the switch from Watford to Brighton two years ago.

The English tactician is a fan of his ability to play across the frontline.

However, Chelsea have also been sniffing around as they search for a versatile forward to fill the void that would follow the potential departure of Christopher Nkunku.

Newcastle are rightly worried. Chelsea have a history of snapping up Brighton coaches and players.

The Blues have taken Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, Ben Roberts, Kyle Macaulay, and Graham Potter from Brighton.

Chelsea could also spark a bidding war that plays into Brighton’s hands, leaving the Magpies handicapped.

Pedro has caught the eye of Newcastle and Chelsea after bagging 17 goals and assists in 30 appearances for Brighton this season.

He recorded 20 goals and four assists in his first term with the Seagulls.

Former Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi hailed Pedro as an ‘amazing striker’ with his quality in possession and between the lines.

Chelsea’s financial muscle and relationship with Brighton might see them land the 23-year-old ahead of Newcastle.

The Magpies need to have a potential alternative in the pipeline if they miss out on Pedro.

Newcastle should consider Evann Guessand as a Joao Pedro alternative – View

With Newcastle looking for a right-winger who can also seamlessly slot into other positions, the club needs to consider OGC Nice star Evann Guessand.

The Ivory Coast international recorded 12 goals and eight assists (12 big chances created) in 33 Ligue 1 appearances last term.

Guessand alerted European clubs and scouts with his ability to ghost into the box off the right flank.

The powerful and lightning-fast 23-year-old is a goalscorer and creator. He is a decent dribbler and powerful in the air.

He records 4.99 touches per 90 in the box and is always looking to create danger.

Guessand is a fantastic fallback option Newcastle should consider this summer, with Chelsea threatening their deal for Pedro.