According to Ben Jacobs, Newcastle are “still trying” to sign Leeds target Joao Pedro despite agreeing a deal for Alexander Isak.
What’s the story?
Well, Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth – Director of Football at Newcastle – made a significant breakthrough earlier today as they agreed a £59m fee with Real Sociedad for the Sweden international.
However, the Magpies do not plan to leave Pedro to Leeds.
Before the news regarding Isak broke, the reliable Fabrizio Romano claimed that Newcastle had agreed a £30m deal with Watford for the Brazilian – despite that, Leeds are still monitoring him, while Everton are planning a hijack.
Therefore, many felt that Howe had abandoned his interest in Pedro after finally reaching an agreement with Real Sociedad, but according to Jacobs, that isn’t the case.
The CBS Sports journalist claims that Newcastle are, however, less likely to sign Lucas Paqueta in addition to Isak, as West Ham submit a bid worth £34m for the man Bruno Guimaraes wants at St James’ Park.
Leeds have chance to beat Newcastle to Joao Pedro
In our view, Leeds have a golden chance to convince Pedro to move to Yorkshire as Newcastle close in on Isak.
£59m is not a small amount of money – to say the least – so the Swede will surely be starting in place of, or alongside, Callum Wilson on Tyneside.
That doesn’t leave much room for Pedro to shine, but at Elland Road, the competition isn’t as fierce.
Marsch has the inexperienced – but impressive – Joe Gelhardt, in addition to Patrick Bamford.
However, the England international is struggling with injuries, and by his own admission, barely trained last season as a result.
Therefore, Pedro has a chance to make the No.9 role his own at Leeds, and that is exactly what Marsch should be telling him as Newcastle focus their attention on Isak.
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