Watford will keep hold of Joao Pedro beyond the transfer deadline despite Premier League interest in the Brazilian striker. Newcastle United held a firm interest in the 20-year-old before the arrival of Alexander Isak, while Everton tried to tempt the Hornets with a late bid this week.
Pedro caught the eye of Newcastle scouts last season, with the Magpies testing Watford's resolve in early August before Frank Lampard's Everton became the front-runners to sign the youngster. However, Pedro has taken to social media to confirm he will stay put beyond Thursday's transfer deadline.
"I’m very happy here. I love being at Watford and I want to do more with them," Pedro wrote on Instagram. "I spoke to the Board yesterday and I am fully committed to the club and looking forward to a successful season. Let's go Hornets."
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Newcastle knew they needed another attacking body through the door this summer, which was made more evident after Callum Wilson's hamstring injury earlier in the month. The club acted fast to land Real Sociedad forward Isak, which saw their interest in Pedro dwindle.
Pedro, along with fellow Watford star Ismaila Sarr, was expected to leave Vicarage Road following the club's relegation last season. However, new manager Rob Edwards has also insisted he was confident of keeping the duo.
“Time will tell and the last few weeks there has been a lot of interest, genuine interest as well," Edwards said this week. "We will see how the next couple of days pan out but I am confident that by the end of the window we will be in a good place.
“They were great tonight and you could see their commitment to the club. They were celebrating in the changing room after as well."
Newcastle are hopeful of landing one more addition this summer and are looking at West Ham right-back Harrison Ashby. Martin Dubravka and other players will be heading out the door at St. James' Park.
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