Everton set to ‘match’ Newcastle United transfer offer for Joao Pedro

Newcastle United are reportedly set to face competition in their chase of Watford striker Joao Pedro.

The Magpies were previously thought to have already agreed a deal to sign the Brazilian, however Eddie Howe played down the rumours and it is now believed they have made a new bid of around £30 million for his signature.

However, the Daily Mail has now reported that Everton are preparing to match United’s offer for Pedro as they look to bolster their attack.

The Toffees sold Pedro’s compatriot for around £50m last month and are yet to bring in a new forward, while Anthony Gordon is also said to have informed the club that he wishes to leave this summer to join Chelsea.

Newcastle will be desperate to win the race for Pedro with the transfer window set to shut next weekend with their options up top also looking sparce.

Despite Callum Wilson’s impressive start to the campaign, his injury record has always been an issue for the Magpies and they may struggle for goals if he was to sidelined again.

It had already been reported that Pedro is keen on a move to Tyneside and so Eddie Howe’s side will hope they can lure him up north and leave Everton’s hunt unfinished.