Sources: Watford respond to last-gasp Everton bid for Joao Pedro
Watford have rejected a last-gasp Everton bid for striker Joao Pedro, sources have told Football Insider.
The Merseysiders have turned their attention to the Brazilian, 20, as they work on getting a deadline-day forward signing over the line.
But Watford have knocked Everton back after previously rejecting Newcastle’s offer worth £30million including add-ons for Pedro.
It remains to be seen if Everton return with an improved bid for the young striker.
Everton are desperate to add another forward option after signing Neal Maupay from Brighton for £15million last week.
They have registered their interest in forwards including PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo, Blackburn’s Ben Brereton Diaz, Wolves’ Hwang Hee-chan and Chelsea star Armando Broja.
Football Insider also revealed on Tuesday (30 August) that the Toffees have told 32-year-old Venezuelan striker Salomon Rondon to find a new club before the transfer cut-off.
Pedro is under contract at Vicarage Road until 2025.
He has scored twice and laid on two assists in six appearances in the Championship so far this term.
Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin has struggled with various injuries over the last 12 months and has not played at all in 2022-23.
Manager Frank Lampard has revealed that the 25-year-old striker is ahead of schedule in his recovery but stressed the need for patience given his recent injury history.
The Merseysiders drew 1-1 with Leeds United on Tuesday (30 August) and are 17th after three games in the Premier League season.
In other news, medical insider issues “huge” Maupay claim as new Everton details emerge