Rob Edwards addresses Joao Pedro’s current situation at Watford amid Newcastle interest | OneFootball

Watford head coach Rob Edwards has admitted that the club want to keep Joao Pedro at Vicarage Road for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign.

The Brazilian forward has recently emerged as a target for Premier League side Newcastle United.

According to a report from Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth on Monday, Newcastle made a bid that was believed to be in the region of £20m for Joao Pedro.

The Hornets opted to reject this particular offer and are understood to be unwilling to part ways with the 20-year-old.

Joao Pedro featured for Watford in last night’s clash with Birmingham City in the Championship.

The Blues opened the scoring in the 19th minute of this fixture as George Hall slotted an effort past goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann.

first goal of the season in the 62nd minute of this fixture.

After his side’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham, Edwards opted to address Joao Pedro’s current situation at Watford amid interest from Newcastle.

Speaking to The Athletic, Edwards said: “Joao Pedro is already a very good player, I think he’s going to be an excellent footballer.

“I do believe this is the right place for him at the moment.

“I think he would really benefit from playing a full season with us and obviously helping the football club to where we want to be.

“I think he can play a huge part in that.

“I think he’s fully committed to that.

“He’s so mature for a young age and he understands what he needs to do as well.”

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In what year was Graham Taylor first appointed as Watford boss?

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The Verdict

It is hardly a surprise that Edwards is keen to keep Joao Pedro at the club as the forward has produced some positive performances in the Championship during his career to date.

As well as scoring 10 goals at this level, the forward has also provided three assists in 41 appearances.

Having recently parted ways with Emmanuel Dennis, Watford’s hopes of challenging for promotion this season could be dealt a major blow if they lose Joao Pedro in the coming weeks.

With the forward’s contract set to run until 2025, the Hornets will be in no rush to sell him this summer and thus Newcastle may have to submit a huge offer in order to test their resolve.