Newcastle United handed Joao Pedro boost as £25m deal falls through last minute

Ismaila Sarr’s proposed move to Aston Villa has reportedly fallen through - and that could be good news for Newcastle United in their pursuit of Joao Pedro.

The Watford winger was set to join Steven Gerrard’s side in a deal worth £25million after a fee was agreed between the two clubs over the weekend.

However, as per the Daily Telegraph’s John Percy, a transfer has collapsed due to issues with the structure of the deal, including Sarr’s personal terms.

How could it benefit Newcastle?

Indeed, Sarr’s failed switch to Villa Park could benefit Newcastle in their efforts to sign Pedro.

Although the Magpies have been hopeful of reaching a compromise, the Hornets had previously insisted that the Brazilian was not for sale.

Offloading Sarr and Pedro - two of their star performers - in the same transfer window would have significantly weakened Rob Edwards’ squad.

However, if Sarr is forced to stay at Vicarage Road, Watford could well loosen their stance on Pedro and push forward in negotiations with Newcastle.

Following their relegation from the Premier League, the Hornets may feel they will benefit from cashing in on at least one of their star players.

Sarr always appeared the most likely to leave this summer but the Villa collapse has cast a major doubt over that.

Negotiations between Watford and Newcastle are set to continue this week.

The 20-year-old missed the Hornets’ 0-0 draw at Preston North End on Saturday with a calf injury.