Joao Pedro reveals key reason for rejecting Newcastle United and why he chose Chelsea
Newcastle United came close to signing Joao Pedro before his eventual move to Chelsea.
Joao Pedro has admitted “he missed” London at Brighton while confirming Newcastle United’s interest.
Toon chiefs pursued the Brazilian earlier this year - before news broke about Alexander Isak’s desire to leave. It has since emerged that Pedro would have likely been a replacement for the new Liverpool man.
Newcastle tracked Pedro following Watford’s relegation in 2022. Ironically, the deal stalled once Isak became available at Real Sociedad.
Newcastle United’s pursuit
The Magpies returned to the table in June and had a £50million bid rejected. Sources indicate the move appeared on until Chelsea played their hand.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has bulldozed his way into English football, spending £1.5billion since he took the reins three years ago. The Blues pounced for Pedro - stumping up a reported £60million - and his decision was made.
Newcastle were left licking their wounds and soon moved for Hugo Ekitike - another top target who turned them down. By the end of the window, Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa were the strikers whose arrivals facilitated Isak’s move to Liverpool.
Joao Pedro admits Newcastle United interest
Speaking to the Evening Standard, Pedro opened up about another club - known to be Newcastle - expressing interest. However, the 23-year-old was hellbent on returning ti the capital.
“When I was in Brighton, I was missing London a little bit,” Pedro said. “I had a chance to move to another club, but I chose Chelsea because it’s in London, it’s a big club, and I knew in my head it was the right move.
“When I was at Brighton, I told my agent I wanted to play in the Champions League. I’m very excited for that with Chelsea.”
Joao Pedro sets Ballon d’Or challenge
Pedro believes he can challenge for the Golden Boot and coveted Ballon d’Or award in the coming years. He added: “Big clubs from England have brought the top strikers from Europe this summer. It will be interesting to compete with them for the Golden Boot.
“It would be a dream one day to win the Ballon d’Or. I believe in myself. Everything is possible. Maybe it can happen.”