Newcastle United were strongly linked with a move for Joao Pedro this summer, and now a new update has emerged from a reliable source on the club's failed pursuit of the player.

What's the latest?

According to Chronicle journalist Ciaran Kelly, Newcastle talks were "moving well" with the Watford forward, but they were unable to complete a deal before the transfer window shut.

Kelly tweeted:

"Joao Pedro talks were 'moving well' at one stage but, crucially, 'not closed' before change of profile."

Dream Almiron heir?

There is no doubt that Newcastle United are on the up following their huge takeover in 2021, and have started their new Premier League campaign fantastically going unbeaten in their first four games of the season, but strengthening the forward line was something the club were clearly keen to address.

With striker Callum Wilson prone to picking up injuries, the club acquired the services of talented striker Alexander Isak this week to make sure they are fully covered in the striker role whilst the Magpies goal machine recovers from yet another problem.

However, there was also an opportunity to add depth and quality even further to the wider positions in the team, something that the club were unable to do after failing to get a deal over the line for the versatile Pedro.

Despite predominantly playing in the centre-forward role, the young talent has also featured in both winger positions for Watford, and his versatility is something Howe could've capitalised on by bringing him in to the squad at St James' Park.

The Newcastle boss could've even landed a dream Miguel Almiron heir if he could continue to develop the £30m ace's talents in the wider positions, which could have set up the Magpies front line for years to come.

Pedro has scored 15 goals and delivered seven assists over his 80 appearances for Watford so far, and despite being relegated last season with his current club he is shaping up to become a player with huge potential with many attributes that are perfect for playing in a winger role.

According to FBref, the young forward has Antoine Griezmann and Richarlison as stylistic matches over the last 12 months, and ranked in the top 2% of his positional peers across the top five European leagues for blocks, interceptions and dribbles completed, ranking in the top 15% for progressive passes and tackles.

With that being said, Pedro is displaying his clear capabilities to become a very talented forward across the front three positions and it won't be surprising if Newcastle make another approach either in January or next summer.