Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Arsenal are reportedly prepared to spend big to sign Brighton and Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, as per Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The 23-year-old joined the Seagulls from Watford last year and displayed promising performances in his debut campaign at AMEX Stadium last campaign.
Now, he has had a productive start to this season, making seven goal contributions in as many league starts. He has scored in a few big games, scoring the winner against Manchester United earlier this term, while he netted the equaliser versus the Gunners and the game eventually ended in a draw.
Moreover, the Brazilian scored and assisted against Manchester City after coming off the bench in the second half – which helped his side come away with all three points.
Now, Fichajes state that after being impressed by Pedro’s recent performances, Arsenal have registered their interest in him and are ready to spend at least £45m to lure him to the Emirates Stadium.
Arteta sees the South American as a ‘fundamental piece’ to bolster the squad and the player fits perfectly into the Spanish boss’ system.
Pedro to Arsenal
Pedro still has three and a half years left in his current contract so Brighton are in a strong position to demand a big for him. The Seagulls usually play hardball to sell their star man so it won’t be easy for the North London club to get the deal done.
The former Watford star is a versatile player as he can play out wide but can also feature as a false nine. Now, he has been playing in the attacking midfield position at AMEX Stadium.
Arsenal’s attacking department hasn’t been at their best thus far this season so reinforcing this area would be the right decision and Pedro could be a shrewd acquisition if Arsenal purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his service in January or next summer.
Meanwhile, following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Fulham in the Premier League last weekend, Arsenal will face off against AS Monaco in the Champions League in midweek before facing off against Everton in the league next weekend.