Newcastle open initial talks to sign £43m “finisher”, he’s even better than Joao Pedro

As Newcastle United prepare for their Champions League return, Eddie Howe faces a critical decision in shaping his attacking lineup.

While Alexander Isak’s £200 million valuation deters potential suitors, the Magpies recognize the need for a world-class partner to share the goalscoring burden.

Two names dominate the conversation: Brighton’s Joao Pedro and Liverpool’s Diogo Jota – each offering distinct qualities that could elevate Newcastle to new heights.

The pursuit of Joao Pedro represents Newcastle’s long-term vision. The Brazilian forward has blossomed under Roberto De Zerbi’s tutelage, netting 30 goals across 70 appearances for Brighton.

His versatility across the frontline and penalty-box instincts make him an attractive proposition, though questions linger about his open-play productivity – just 14 non-penalty goals during his Seagulls tenure.

At 23, Pedro embodies the project-based signing that aligns with PIF’s sustainable growth model, but Chelsea’s competing interest threatens to complicate negotiations.

Enter Diogo Jota – the proven Premier League marksman who presents an intriguing alternative. Liverpool’s willingness to entertain offers for the 28-year-old has alerted several clubs, with Newcastle reportedly making initial contact last spring.

While injuries disrupted Jota’s 2024/25 campaign, his underlying numbers remain elite: ranking among Europe’s top 15% of forwards for progressive passes and top 8% for defensive contributions last season. These metrics reveal a complete modern forward – equally comfortable creating chances, pressing defenders, and finishing clinically.

Newcastle’s Champions League aspirations demand players who’ve thrived on Europe’s biggest stages. Jota’s 65 goals for Liverpool include numerous clutch moments in continental competition, a pedigree Pedro cannot yet match.

As Jamie Carragher observed, the Portuguese international possesses arguably the cleanest finishing technique of any Liverpool forward in the Premier League era – a quality that could prove invaluable in tight European fixtures.

Tactically, Jota offers Howe unprecedented flexibility. His positional heatmap shows remarkable productivity across the entire frontline:

This versatility would allow Howe to deploy Jota alongside Isak in a 4-4-2, as a wide forward in a 4-3-3, or even as a second striker behind the Swede – solving multiple selection dilemmas with one acquisition.

While Pedro’s potential is undeniable, Newcastle’s immediate needs may favor Jota’s ready-made quality. The Liverpool forward’s intelligent movement and link-up play would complement Isak’s more direct style, creating a partnership reminiscent of Liverpool’s famed Salah-Firmino axis.

His defensive work rate (2.3 tackles+interceptions per 90) also fits Howe’s high-pressing philosophy better than Pedro’s more positionally disciplined approach.

Financially, both deals present different calculations. Pedro’s younger age commands a premium, likely exceeding £60 million, while Jota’s £43 million valuation reflects his contract situation and injury history.

However, the latter’s proven track record in big games offers greater certainty during Newcastle’s crucial Champions League transition season.

Newcastle’s recruitment team faces a classic dilemma: invest in Pedro’s long-term upside or secure Jota’s immediate impact. While the Brazilian represents the project’s future, the Portuguese star offers the perfect bridge between Newcastle’s current level and their continental ambitions.

His big-game mentality, tactical adaptability, and clinical finishing could prove the difference in tight matches against Europe’s elite.

As the transfer window progresses, Newcastle must weigh whether now is the time for patient development or accelerated progress.

In Jota, they’d acquire not just a superb footballer, but a mentor who could elevate Isak’s game while delivering crucial goals. For a club transitioning to Europe’s top table, that combination might be too valuable to ignore.