As Newcastle United searched for a new forward in the summer transfer window, their pursuit took them in many different directions.

But at the start of the window, two forwards who featured prominently in their thinking were Ipswich Town's Liam Delap and Brighton and Hove Albion star Joao Pedro.

Delap had a £30million release clause after the Tractor Boys' relegation from the Premier League and his 12-goal haul for a side that went down, coupled with a modest transfer fee, made him an attractive proposition.

Joao Pedro had come off the back of a 20-goal season in all competitions in 2023/24 and a 10-goal haul in the 2024/25 Premier League and Newcastle were keen to add him to their ranks.

As it transpired, Chelsea won the race for Delap and then the attraction of living in London also convinced Pedro to move to Stamford Bridge in a deal worth up to £60million, as the Blues won the race for both of...