Exclusive: £60m striker is ready to change position to join Newcastle after ‘massive fallout’ at his club

Newcastle United have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Brighton striker Joao Pedro, with the Brazilian international reportedly willing to adapt his game to secure a move to St James’ Park.

TBR Football can exclusively reveal the 23-year-old has expressed his readiness to operate on the right wing for Eddie Howe’s side, demonstrating remarkable flexibility to fit into their tactical setup.

Pedro enjoyed a breakthrough Premier League campaign last season, netting 10 goals and providing six assists in just 27 appearances for Brighton. His performances not only established him as one of the division’s most exciting young forwards but also put him in contention for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

While Chelsea have registered interest, Newcastle now appear best positioned to capitalize on the player’s deteriorating relationship with his current club.

Fallout Accelerates Departure

The situation at Brighton has reached a tipping point following a training ground altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke.

Though the club attempted to downplay the incident, sources confirm Pedro’s relationship with the Seagulls hierarchy has fractured beyond repair. With van Hecke set to sign a new contract, the Brazilian striker now actively seeks an exit.

“Joao Pedro to Newcastle is a real thing now,” revealed TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey. “There’s been a massive fallout at Brighton, and while they’ll demand a substantial fee, it likely won’t reach the £60 million mark given the circumstances.

Crucially, Pedro has told Newcastle he’s open to playing that right-sided role while still competing for minutes up front.”

This versatility makes him particularly appealing to Howe, who has long admired the former Watford man. Newcastle’s recruitment team previously attempted to sign Pedro before Brighton secured his services in 2023, and they now have an opportunity to rectify that missed opportunity.

Shearer’s Seal of Approval

The potential acquisition carries the endorsement of Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, who praised Pedro’s “brilliant center-forward play” during analysis of Brighton’s victory over Bournemouth last November.

Highlighting the striker’s anticipation for rebounds and excellent hold-up play, Shearer’s assessment aligns perfectly with Howe’s requirements for a modern forward.

Pedro’s willingness to accept a hybrid role demonstrates both his tactical intelligence and ambition. With Alexander Isak firmly established as Newcastle’s first-choice striker, the Brazilian recognizes the need for flexibility to secure regular minutes while still contributing significantly in the final third.

His ability to drift wide and link play could prove invaluable as Newcastle prepare for Champions League football.

Strategic Fit for Newcastle’s System

Howe’s preference for fluid attacking systems makes Pedro an ideal candidate. The manager frequently deploys wingers who can interchange positions, and Pedro’s technical quality and eye for goal would add a new dimension to Newcastle’s right flank.

His arrival could allow Anthony Gordon to rotate more freely across the frontline while providing genuine competition for Miguel Almiron.

Financially, the deal makes sense for all parties. Brighton will recoup a healthy profit on their initial £30 million investment, while Newcastle secure a player entering his prime years at a price below market value due to the strained relationship with his current club.

With Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin also on their radar, the Magpies are exploring multiple options to strengthen their attacking options.

Securing Pedro’s signature would represent another significant step in Newcastle’s evolution under their Saudi-backed ownership. The Brazilian’s proven Premier League pedigree removes the adaptation period required with overseas signings, while his age profile fits the club’s long-term vision.

As negotiations progress, all signs point toward this transfer gaining momentum. Pedro’s determination to join Newcastle, coupled with Brighton’s willingness to sell, creates ideal conditions for a deal to be completed before pre-season begins.

For a player of his quality to actively push for the move speaks volumes about the project taking shape on Tyneside.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle can finalize this ambitious swoop, but one thing is certain: Joao Pedro’s potential arrival would provide exactly the kind of versatile, high-caliber attacking option needed to compete on multiple fronts next season.

With Champions League football returning to St James’ Park, the Brazilian could be the perfect addition to elevate Howe’s squad to new heights.