Newcastle United Have Stepped Up Their Efforts For This Brighton Striker: Should Howe Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, The Telegraph claimed that Newcastle United have stepped up their efforts for Brighton and Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro this off-season. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are eager to get a deal done for the Brazilian forward this summer.

Pedro’s Impressive Season In English Football

Pedro had a decent campaign at Brighton as he put in a string of impressive displays for them in the Premier League. The 23-year-old found the back of the net on ten occasions and picked up seven assists in 30 appearances for the Seagulls last season across all competitions.

The Brazilian attacker gave a good account of himself in the final third based on his average 1.94 shots per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he kept only 35.7% of his attempts on target. Pedro also has to figure out a way to improve his ball distribution up top after making 72.9% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via fbref.com).

Pedro’s current contract at Brighton will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for the Magpies to sign him on the cheap this off-season.

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 12: Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion waits to take his first penalty of the game during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Leicester City FC at Amex Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)

Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Move In For Pedro?

Pedro is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make some dangerous runs in the final third. He has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the opposition half and can shoot the ball with power from long range.

The Brazilian mainly operates as a centre-forward but can also fill in as a left-sided wide player if told to do so by his manager. He already knows the Premier League well and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Newcastle.

Pedro would no doubt enhance the quality of Eddie Howe’s frontline. He could go on to form a productive partnership with Alexander Isak at St. James’ Park.

At 23, there is still a lot of room for improvement in Pedro’s game. Hence, the Magpies would be wise to move in for him in this summer transfer period as he would help them compete across all fronts in the future.