Newcastle are close to opening talks with Brighton over the signing of forward Joao Pedro, according to The Telegraph.

It is claimed there is a growing confidence that a deal can be done for the Brazil international, although there is still a lot of work to do.

Newcastle have reportedly been encouraged to step up their pursuit of the 22-year-old, who has become the Magpies' priority target.

The report claims Pedro, who is hugely admired by Newcastle boss Eddie Howe, is valued at around £60m by Brighton.