Joao Pedro’s transfer preference revealed as Chelsea & Newcastle battle for £60m-rated Brighton ace | OneFootball

Chelsea and Newcastle United are battling for the signature of Brighton & Hove Albion ace Joao Pedro.

The Blues recently have had a bid rejected for the 23-year-old, with Brighton holding out for a fee in excess of £60m.

But in a transfer boost for Chelsea, Pedro is leaning towards a move to Stamford Bridge this summer, per The Guardian.

Enzo Maresca’s side see the Brazilian as a replacement for Christopher Nkunku, who is expected to leave the club this summer.

Pedro has been a key player for the Seagulls since joining the club from Watford in a then club-record £30 million deal.

He has made 70 appearances across all competitions, bagging 30 goals and 10 assists in the process.

The Brazil international has three years left on his contract at the Amex Stadium, but it seems Brighton are ready to cash in on the player this summer.

Chelsea saw their opening bid rejected but they could return with another offer.

Newcastle are also eyeing a move for Pedro amid uncertainty over Callum Wilson’s future.

Wilson’s contract will expire at the end of this month, and he is yet to agree a new deal with the Magpies.

Eddie Howe’s side also have William Osula on their books, but he is currently seen as a support striker to Alexander Isak.

Stats from Transfermarkt