Newcastle United’s £17m bid for Leeds United target ‘rejected’ by Championship club

Newcastle United have had a £17million bid rejected by Watford for Joao Pedro, according to Sky Sports.

The 20-year-old forward has started the Championship season in good form having scored the winner during the Hornets’ 1-0 opening day win over Sheffield United.

The news of the Magpies’ apparent offer for the Brazilian has come out of the blue but it certainly isn’t a surprise as United step up their search for attacking reinforcements.

It’s no secret that Eddie Howe wants to bolster his attacking options before the transfer deadline on September 1 - and Pedro fits the profile of having plenty of potential. He’s also versatile. He can play as a striker or as a winger.

Pedro moved to Vicarage Road in January 2020 from Fluminense and has scored 14 goals in 76 appearances.

He scored a late equaliser at St James’ Park last season as the two clubs played out a dull 1-1 draw.

As recently as last week, Newcastle’s Premier League counterparts Leeds United were credited with an interest in Pedro.

The Hornets insist Pedro is not for sale having already lost Emmanuel Dennis to Nottingham Forest, while Ismaila Sarr could still leave.