Arsenal-linked Joao Pedro was left out of Brighton's squad during their 3-2 win over Liverpool on Monday. However, his absence wasn't linked to ongoing transfer rumours, but rather due to an "altercation" with Seagulls team-mate Jan Paul van Hecke.
The 23-year-old forward had just completed a three-game suspension and was eligible to return to action. But Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler explained after the final whistle that Pedro's omission was due to "private reasons."
The Brazilian's no-show came shortly after renewed speculation linking him with a summer exit, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea among the clubs reportedly eyeing him as the campaign draws to a close. According to The Athletic, Pedro's altercation with Van Hecke occurred on the training ground ahead of Brighton's clash with Wolves earlier this month.
While Pedro was already serving a ban for a red card against Brentford in April, tensions in training seem to have played a part in his continued exclusion. Both players have had prominent roles this season, with Pedro featuring 27 times and Van Hecke playing in 33 league matches.
Pedro is currently Brighton's joint top scorer with 10 league goals and remains a standout performer. The Telegraph recently reported that Pedro is attracting serious interest, having hit 30 goals in 70 appearances since joining Brighton in a £30million deal from Watford in 2023.
Arsenal are said to be monitoring the Brazilian's situation closely, with a view to bringing him in this summer either as their first-choice No. 9 or alongside another striker, with the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Alexander Isak all linked with moves to the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners are long-time admirers of Pedro, and are thought to have considered him during previous transfer windows. Given his versatility across the front line and a contract running through 2028, Brighton hold a strong hand should they entertain offers during the summer window.
That said, it's been reported that, following the training ground bust-up, the south coast club are open to letting him leave. However, they will likely only do so for the right price.
Arsenal wrap up their season with an away trip to Southampton on Sunday, knowing a win will guarantee second spot in the Premier League. The club are widely tipped to go all out in the transfer market this summer to ensure they don't fall short in the league for a fourth successive season.
Jan Paul van Hecke
Jan Paul van Hecke reportedly clashed with Joao Pedro in training earlier this month (Image: Jacques Feeney/Offside)
Additions are expected to be made all over the pitch, but it's understood that manager Mikel Arteta is prioritising the team's attack, which was significantly exposed following injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. At least one centre forward is expected to arrive, and the Gunners are keen on a new winger too.
Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams remains the dream target, but his wage demands could prove a stumbling block. Real Madrid ace Rodrygo is also on the club's radar following reports Los Blancos are open to selling him.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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