“Newcastle United in SHOCKING Secret Plot to SNATCH Arsenal’s Dream Striker in Jaw-Dropping Transfer Heist!”

Premier League clubs are jostling for proven centre-forwards this summer, with top-level strikers in short supply.

As teams scramble to reinforce their attacks, Newcastle United, now requalified for the Champions League, are quietly going about their business — and may beat Arsenal and Chelsea to a key signing, per The Telegraph.

Brighton forward Joao Pedro has emerged as a serious target for Newcastle. While a teammate reportedly said the Brazilian prefers to live in London — a potential boost for Arsenal or Chelsea — Luke Edwards of The Telegraph claims that Newcastle are undeterred.

“Newcastle are being encouraged to step up their interest in Brighton forward Joao Pedro after learning the Brazilian would be interested in making the move,” Edwards writes.

The Magpies are said to have already engaged with intermediaries and understand Pedro may be allowed to leave Brighton this summer if a suitable offer is made.

The Seagulls reportedly value the 22-year-old at around £60 million — a price Newcastle appear willing to negotiate.

Pedro has scored 19 goals across two Premier League seasons since joining from Watford and remains admired by manager Eddie Howe.

The Newcastle boss was close to signing him back in 2022 before opting for Alexander Isak. Now, with European competition back on the horizon, Howe is again eyeing Pedro to boost his attacking options.

Newcastle’s activity isn’t limited to the forward line. They are also exploring deals for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga and Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande.

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle have been quietly scouting Diomande, a rising Ivorian star who has become a standout performer in Portugal.

The 21-year-old joined Sporting Lisbon in 2023, quickly breaking into the first team under Ruben Amorim and later Rui Borges.

Known for his tackling and aerial strength, Diomande also offers a goal threat and helped Sporting win consecutive league titles in 2023–24 and 2024–25.

The young defender completed his development at Danish club Midtjylland, the same academy that produced Simon Kjaer and Paul Onuachu.

His strong performances have earned him several international caps for Ivory Coast, and his potential continues to draw attention across Europe.

Newcastle’s need for defensive reinforcements is growing urgent. Fabian Schar and Dan Burn, despite Burn’s impressive form, are both 33.

Jamaal Lascelles, over 30, has battled injuries, while Sven Botman’s fitness remains a key concern for the club. With more fixtures to navigate next season and ageing defenders in the squad, bolstering the backline is a top priority.

While only England international Marc Guehi — whom Newcastle unsuccessfully pursued last summer — has been publicly linked, Diomande has emerged as a more realistic and long-term solution.

Whether these defensive moves remain secret or become public, Newcastle look determined to strengthen both ends of the pitch this summer.