New report hints at Eddie Howe system change as Newcastle United gear up for £60m striker bid

Newcastle United are once again heavily linked with an interest in Brazilian striker João Pedro, having missed out on signing the young forward in 2022.

João Pedro was ahead of Alexander Isak on Newcastle's wishlist in 2022 after the Magpies watched the youngster in action in the Premier League for Watford, but despite getting close to a £30m switch, the move collapsed and Newcastle ended up paying a record-breaking £63 million for Isak instead.

Now it looks as though it could cost just as much again to rectify their mistake of three years ago, as Pedro, now at Brighton, could cost Newcastle £60 million if they want to sign the 23-year-old this summer.

On the face of it, it's wild to think that João Pedro could cost the same as Alexander Isak, but when you think of how much Isak is worth now, it makes more sense as the Sweden star is currently rated at over £150 million by Newcastle.

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Convincing a striker to come and compete for Alexander Isak's place is going to be tough

One of the problems Newcastle will have trying to convince Pedro, or indeed any other striker, to join them this summer is Isak's presence in the squad. However, there seems to be a plan in place to deal with that.

No striker is going to expect to come in and dislodge Isak from the starting lineup, but iNews are reporting that Newcastle's pitch for strikers this summer is that Eddie Howe is thinking of a change in system that would see two centre-forwards starting next season.

This could tempt strikers to rethink a move to Newcastle, given that they could be playing alongside Alexander Isak rather than competing with him for minutes.

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João Pedro could do with a bit of Eddie Howe magic

As the report also points out, Joao Pedro has the added bonus of versatility, which means that he could slot in elsewhere too, rather than just a strike partner. He could play as a No. 10 or on either flank, which increases his chances of game time.

After clashing with Jan Paul van Hecke at the end of the season, Joao Pedro was dropped from the squad for the final two games having missed the previous three due to suspension for a red card, which does suggest Eddie Howe would have to give him an attitude readjustment, but his talent is undeniable, as is Eddie Howe's admiration of the player.

Newcastle haven't made a move yet, but the iPaper expects movement next week as Newcastle step up their transfer plans.