Newcastle fear Chelsea will hijack Joao Pedro deal | OneFootball

Newcastle United fear that Chelsea could gazump them in the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, according to journalist Alex Crook.

Pedro has reportedly asked to leave the Seagulls this summer, and the Magpies want to bring him to St James’ Park.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is a long-time admirer and tried to sign him before the switch from Watford to Brighton two years ago.

The English tactician is a fan of his ability to play across the frontline.

However, Chelsea have also been sniffing around as they search for a versatile forward to fill the void that would follow the potential departure of Christopher Nkunku.

Newcastle are rightly worried. Chelsea have a history of acquiring Brighton coaches and players.

The Blues have taken Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, Ben Roberts, Kyle Macaulay and Graham Potter from Brighton.

Chelsea could also spark a bidding war that works in Brighton’s favour.

Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi hailed Pedro as an ‘amazing striker’ with his quality in possession and between the lines.

Chelsea’s financial muscle and relationship with Brighton could help them sign the 23-year-old ahead of Newcastle.

Newcastle should consider Evann Guessand as an alternative

With Newcastle looking for a right-winger who can also seamlessly slot into other positions, they must consider OGC Nice star Evann Guessand.

The Ivory Coast international recorded 12 goals and eight assists in 33 Ligue 1 appearances last term.

Guessand alerted European clubs and scouts with his ability to ghost into the box off the right flank.

The powerful and lightning-fast 23-year-old is a goalscorer and creator. He is a decent dribbler and powerful in the air.

He records an average of 4.99 touches per 90 minutes in the box and consistently looks to create danger.

Guessand is a fantastic fallback option Newcastle should consider this summer, with Chelsea threatening their deal for Pedro.