Newcastle United on the cusp of signing Watford forward Joao Pedro

Newcastle United are set to sign Brazilian forward Joao Pedro from Watford, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Per the report, the 20-year-old will put pen to paper on a lengthy six-year contract at the St James’ Park Stadium after the Hornets agreed to a £25 million deal plus an extra £5m in add-ons.

Having missed out on promising talent Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle identified Pedro as a top transfer target as they look to add firepower at the attacking end of the pitch before next Thursday’s transfer deadline.

The young Brazilian is reportedly keen on the move as he looks to secure top-flight football, following in the footsteps of Emmanuel Dennis, who joined newly-promoted Nottingham Forest.

However, the Magpies saw their opening two bids for Pedro turned down by Watford, who held out for a £30m fee and are in no rush to part ways with their prized asset.

After weeks of negotiation, both clubs have finally come to terms over a deal, with the Tyne outfit agreeing to pay a £25m fixed fee plus an additional £5m in add-ons.

Rob Edwards’s side have reportedly included a 10% future sell-on fee in the deal for Joao Pedro, who is set to sign a six-year contract with Newcastle United.

Joao Pedro moved to England in January 2020, signing a five-year contract with Watford from Brazilian outfit Fluminense.

After making just five appearances in his first six months at the club, he enjoyed an eye-catching first full campaign at the Vicarage Stadium as he struck nine goals and provided three assists in 40 appearances.

Pedro made 78 appearances across all competitions for the Hornets, scoring 14 goals and providing four assists since his debut against Tranmere Rovers in the EFL Cup in January 2020.

His arrival marks Newcastle’s fourth foray into the Premier League summer transfer market, following the arrival of Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Matt Targett.