Reported Newcastle United target Pedro has spoken out about his future ahead of his current Chelsea deal running out at the end of the season, in conversation with The Sun.
A recent report in The Chronicle claimed that the prospective new Newcastle owners could be looking at high-profile players soon out of contract, with Blues attacker Pedro one of those earmarked for a potential move.
The Spain international netted 58 goals in 204 matches for Barcelona before signing for Chelsea in 2015 and scoring 29 goals in 135 games, but with no breakthrough made over a new deal, he could well be after a new club by the end of the season.
“The (global health crisis) situation affected everything, so at the moment we are waiting for a meeting with Chelsea,” Pedro is quoted by The Sun as saying. “I must meet with the club, but I have offers from many places too.
“I know that the contract is concluding, but we have not yet sat down to discuss whether to renew and continue here or not. I’m waiting for the meeting with the club, but am also open to listening to other offers. The priority right now is completing my contract, then we’ll see what happens.”
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With Newcastle on the verge of a potentially lucrative takeover, the rumour mill has gone into overdrive with regards to potential Tyneside targets – players, coaches and even backroom staff.
Realistically, the Magpies are unlikely to sign high-profile players in the prime of their careers just yet, as they will either be playing for, or are being sought after by, elite clubs already in league and European title contention.
Therefore, a player like Pedro could fit the bill – he is a high-calibre player with a stellar CV which includes the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2012, three Champions Leagues and a Premier League title, but in the twilight of his career and potentially available on a free transfer.
The £21.4million man hasn’t got much game time this season for Chelsea, so first-team football is something he’d surely want, and Newcastle would be able to provide that, while the project itself – building a side hoping to take the Premier League by storm – and a potentially large pay packet would also be tempting for many a player.