£34m bid confirmed by Sky Sports - A sign Joao Pedro is on his way out of Brighton?

In the last few days, following a slow start to the opening week of the summer window, Newcastle finally look to be showing signs of life in the transfer market.

After the disappointment of missing out on Liam Delap, and likely losing the race for Bryan Mbeumo, renewed interest in Anthony Elanga and Joao Pedro was reported over the weekend, with the club opening discussions over a move for the attacking duo.

Wanting to act quickly in the transfer market was one of Eddie Howe’s top priorities, and if the latest developments come to fruition, it seems a certain club are already preparing for Pedro's departure..

A £34m sign Joao Pedro is heading for exit?

Based on reports last night, it seems Brighton may be planning for life without Joao Pedro.

Not only has Fabrizio Romano declared that the 23-year-old old is 'expected to leave', with 'movements taking place' to see him depart, the Seagulls have now been busy bidding for what could turn out to be the Brazilian's replacement.

According to Sky Sports, Brighton have just launched a £34m bid for Olympiacos striker Charalampos Kostoulas, with the Greek youngster reportedly very open to the move.

Considering Brighton have Danny Welbeck, Evan Ferguson and Georginio Rutter as forward options alongside Pedro, it makes you wonder if the bid has been made with Pedro's impending exit in mind?

Potential hurdles to Pedro deal

Pedro could be an ideal fit if Howe is hoping to benefit from his versatility and look to play him just off Alexander Isak in a potential formation change next season.

However, there are still a couple issues that may prove to be stumbling blocks in negotiations, even if the former Watford star is keen to sign.

First being the price: Fabian Hurzeler’s side reportedly value their player in excess of £60m - certainly a Premier League premium, and potentially more than what we paid for Isak and Tonali.

Then there’s Chelsea's interest. Having already snapped up Liam Delap, they are in the market for another forward and we all know they are happy to splash the cash; on transfer fees and wages.

As we’ve seen from the past few windows, Brighton know they have a reliable buyer who will happily overspend in the Blues, something which we may not be able to compete should Enzo Maresca's side ditch a rumoured move and pursue Pedro instead.