Arsenal are reportedly keen to secure the services of Brighton & Hove Albion forward João Pedro, one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season.
However, a mid-season transfer appears unlikely as Brighton, currently in the hunt for European football, are poised to resist any approach in January.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 09: Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion in action during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Manchester City FC at Amex Stadium on November 09, 2024 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Arsenal’s interest in João Pedro
The Gunners are said to be preparing a bid of up to £54m for the 23-year-old Brazilian striker.
Pedro, who joined Brighton from Watford in 2023 for €34.2m (£29.7m), has flourished in Fabian Hürzeler’s dynamic system. With four goals and three assists in just 591 Premier League minutes this season, Pedro has averaged a goal contribution every 66 minutes, underlining his growing influence.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly eager to strengthen his attacking options as the club chases silverware in both domestic and European competitions.
The Spanish coach views Pedro’s versatility, intelligence, and adaptability as a perfect fit for his tactical setup. Despite being deployed primarily as a striker, Pedro’s ability to link play and create opportunities for his teammates adds an extra dimension to his appeal.
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 29: João Pedro of Brighton in action during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Southampton FC at Amex Stadium on November 29, 2024 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Brighton’s European ambitions
Brighton currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, just five points behind Arsenal in third and three points off Manchester City in fourth.
Their push for a European qualification spot means they are unlikely to part with one of their key assets midway through the season.
Pedro’s contributions have been instrumental in maintaining Brighton’s competitive edge, and the Seagulls are under no financial pressure to sell, especially given his contract runs until 2028.
Competition for Pedro’s signature
Arsenal may also face competition from other top clubs, including league leaders Liverpool. Reports suggest Liverpool are monitoring Pedro as they search for attacking reinforcements amid concerns over Darwin Núñez’s form.
Should Brighton entertain offers for Pedro, a bidding war could ensue, driving up the player’s valuation significantly.
January transfer unlikely
While Arsenal’s interest in João Pedro highlights their ambition to continue building a title-challenging squad, a January move seems improbable given Brighton’s ambitions and Pedro’s importance to their campaign.
For now, Arsenal may have to turn their attention to alternative targets or wait until the summer window to revisit their pursuit of the Brazilian forward.
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