Liverpool are reportedly lining up a move for Brighton forward Joao Pedro ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.
Seagulls striker Pedro has been described as a ‘priority’ target for Arne Slot’s Reds – with talks on a move to Anfield possibly starting next month.
Reports emerging from Pedro’s native Brazil have claimed the 23-year-old is being looked at due to concerns about Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez.
Jota has been solid for Liverpool when fit but has struggled to put together a consistent run of games.
Nunez, meanwhile, has scored just three times in 19 appearances this season, and hasn’t been on the scoresheet in his last five games.
Joao Pedro Is Now A Top Target For Liverpool
With Arne Slot believed to want more consistent firepower up front, Liverpool are in the market for a striker.
Brazilian outlet UOL has reported that Pedro is a “priority target” and that Liverpool “intend to start the negotiation process in January.”
The Reds have reportedly been monitoring Pedro since he joined Watford in 2019.
According to UOL, discussions between the two clubs are at a very early stage, but Pedro fits “the profile Arne Slot is looking for”.
Liverpool could face competition from other Premier League teams, though. Manchester United are another side believed to be considering Joao Pedro as an option.
But the good relationship between Brighton and Liverpool could factor into negotiations. Alexis Mac Allister recently swapped the South Coast for Merseyside in a deal worth £55 million including add-ons.
Joao Pedro’s Contract Situation Means He Wont Come Cheap
The forward’s current contract with Brighton runs until June 2028. As a result, the Seagulls are in no hurry to sell Joao Pedro at a reduced price.
At 23 years old, Pedro already has 71 Premier League appearances, with a further 73 in the Championship.
He has tonnes of experience in English football for someone of his age, and a very high ceiling.
His end product still needs to improve, but with four goals and three assists this season across nine appearances, Pedro’s goal contributions are clearly trending in the right direction.
All of these factors combined mean Brighton will likely demand a significant fee.
Joao Pedro is currently valued at around £42 million by Transfermarkt, but Liverpool will probably need to pay well beyond that in order to secure his services.
