Dan Ashworth misses out on top Newcastle United target as Premier League rivals agree deal

One of Newcastle United’s long-term transfer targets is set to return to the Premier League next season.

Brighton & Hove Albion are closing in on a move for Watford forward Joao Pedro, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claiming there’s an agreement in principle.

The Magpies attempted to sign the Brazilian last summer and reportedly tabled a £30million bid before opting to sign Alexander Isak for a club-record fee instead.

United sporting director Dan Ashworth retained an interest in Pedro ahead of next season, but his former club Brighton have swept in under his nose. As per Romano, an agreement is set to be signed soon with personal terms already agreed.

The 21-year-old was part of the Watford team that was relegated from the Premier League last year. He signed a new long-term contract at Vicarage Road ahead of the 2022-23 Championship season, and has scored 11 goals in 35 appearances.

Chris Wilder’s side have agreed to offload Pedro after failing to achieve immediate promotion back to England’s top-flight.

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