EXCLUSIVE: Source close to Watford reveals what it will take for Newcastle to sign João Pedro

It looks like Newcastle will have to up their current bid considerably if they wish to sign João Pedro over the final few weeks of the transfer window.

Speaking to @louorns - a source close to Watford Football Club - we were told last night that it will take £30-35m to "get the ball rolling" for the highly-rated Brazilian.

He insists that Pedro is deemed the most valuable asset at Vicarage Road and set to cost more than Emmanuel Dennis - who's just joined Nottingham Forest for £20m - and Ismaila Sarr, being four years younger than both and contracted to the club until 2025.

Sky Sports revealed that our opening offer came in at £20m, with Fabrizio Romano later claiming that it was worth £23m after add-ons, however, it seems Watford will demand another £7-12m on top of that if we wish to be successful in our pursuit of the 20-year-old talent.

This suggests there is currently a big gap between our valuation and the Hornet's asking price, although this does go against the "not for sale" stance - which is a source of encouragement in itself?

Here's what Lou told NUFC Blog when we reached out for an update on Monday night:

“Between João Pedro, Emmanuel Dennis and Ismaila Sarr, Pedro was the one Watford value the highest.

"He's best player at the club.

"It’ll take £30-35million to get the ball rolling.”