It’s so obvious who Newcastle United must sign after Joao Pedro rejected them; he’s ‘like Phil Foden’

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Newcastle United could do a lot worse than turning to James McAtee following claims Joao Pedro has rejected them.

Chelsea are moving ahead of Newcastle in the race for Pedro, which will no doubt be a major blow for Eddie Howe.

The Newcastle United manager has tracked Pedro for years but, according to recent reports, the Brighton forward has snubbed the idea of a move to St James’ Park.

With that in mind, Newcastle need to pivot. And that’s where McAtee comes in. 

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Joao Pedro rejects Newcastle United

According to AS journalist Eduardo Burgos on social media platform X, the Brighton forward has rejected Newcastle’s proposal. 

Both Newcastle and Chelsea have had bids worth around £50million rejected by Brighton but it seems the player himself is leaning towards joining the Blues instead anyway.

“Brighton have rejected Chelsea’s initial offer for Joao Pedro,” he wrote.

“The Seagulls want around £60million for the Brazilian. Negotiations are ongoing between the two clubs. The player has declined Newcastle’s offer. Key days to resolve his future.”

Chelsea already signed Liam Delap ahead of Newcastle and it appears as if they’re in a position to land another of Howe’s leading targets this summer. 

Why Newcastle United should sign James McAtee

Manchester City are ready to sell McAtee for £25million, having left him out of their Club World Cup squad. 

Instead, the 22-year-old captained the England U21 squad who defended their European Championship title by beating Germany in the final on Saturday night. 

Newcastle have been linked with McAtee, who is able to operate in a number of different attacking positions. 

Pedro’s versatility reportedly appealed to Howe and the City academy graduate has something similar to his game. Granted, he’s not really ever played as a striker, but McAtee can play in a central attacking midfield position, as well as on the wing.

Pep Guardiola rates McAtee highly but the sheer strength of the City squad has denied him many first-team opportunities. Last season, he scored three goals in as many Premier League starts. 

“He is such a good footballer and a lovely guy. Quite similar qualities as Phil (Foden),” said Guardiola in January.

“It is not easy when you don’t get many minutes for your confidence. Hopefully we can keep James for many years.”

Able to operate in midfield as well as on the wing, he’d offer cover and competition across the Newcastle United squad.  

While a new forward will surely be needed after Pedro’s rejection, McAtee would at least help fill the need for cover in wide areas.

Seemingly set to leave City this summer, Newcastle would be wise to move.