‘Newcastle handed Joao Pedro boost as Brighton step up Kostoulas pursuit’
Newcastle United have been handed a boost in their efforts to sign Joao Pedro as the Seagulls have stepped up their interest in Charalampos Kostoulas.
Kostoulas has emerged as an exciting young talent for Olympiacos, scoring seven goals in 22 Greek Super League outings this term.
The 18-year-old also made eight Europa League appearances, creating one assist in the process.
Meanwhile, Pedro enjoyed another successful Premier League season for Brighton, scoring 10 goals in 27 appearances.
Newcastle could sign Pedro as Brighton bid for Kostoulas
Former Manchester United and Sunderland chief scout exclusively informed Football Insider that Newcastle are plotting to sign Pedro from Brighton.
The Seagulls could be unwilling to sell the 23-year-old without acquiring a worthy replacement for his services.
But according to The Athletic [8 June], Brighton have bid £34million for Kostoulas after his goal-scoring exploits for Olympiacos.
The South East club’s serious interest in Kostoulas could mean that they are willing to offload Pedro, which would spell good news for Newcastle.
Pedro could be vital for Newcastle’s Champions League efforts
When Newcastle last competed in the Champions League during the 2023/24 season, the Magpies were knocked out of the competition in the group stages amid a relative lack of strength in depth.
| Joao Pedro stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 27 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 6 |
To avoid a similar fate once more next season, Eddie Howe will be keen to bolster his ranks this summer.
Should Newcastle retain star man Alexander Isak during the summer transfer windows, the Sweden international will continue to lead the line for Howe’s men.
But potential new signing Pedro would present himself as a solid rotation option, which could help the Magpies progress on all fronts next term, including in the Champions League.
Furthermore, having notched double figures in the Premier League for a Brighton side who finished eighth in the top flight, he could be even better for the North East club who won the Carabao Cup in March.
Additionally, the increased level of competition from Pedro could allow Isak to further flourish.