Everton have moved to beat Newcastle United to the signing of Watford striker Joao Pedro.
The Daily Mail says the Toffees have made contact with the Vicarage Road club to discuss the 20-year-old Brazilian, and sources say they are now ready to rival the Magpies for his signature.
Newcastle have made a second bid of £25m plus £5m in add-ons for Pedro, who is said to be keen on a move to St James' Park.
There has been optimism from those close to the deal that the player will complete a transfer to Tyneside in the coming days.
But Everton's interest is potentially a complicating factor. They are in talks with Chelsea over the £60m sale of winger Anthony Gordon and would need a replacement.
