Joao Pedro missed out on Brighton's 3-2 Premier League victory over Liverpool on Monday evening after a reported 'altercation' with team-mate Jan Paul van Hecke at the training ground. The 23-year-old striker had served a three-match suspension and was eligible to play in the heart-stopping 3-2 win at the Amex Stadium. Yet, Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler did not include him in the match-day squad, citing "private reasons" for his absence post-match.
This news follows recent speculation linking Joao Pedro with summer moves to Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool as the campaign nears its end. However, The Athletic has now disclosed that the real reason he didn't take part in the midweek game is due to a clash with Van Hecke at the training ground before their last Premier League match versus Wolves.
Details of the confrontation are scant, but it has been highlighted that Joao Pedro was already serving a suspension during the Wolves game following a red card for violent conduct against Brentford earlier in April. Both players have been key players for the Seagulls throughout this season, racking up 27 and 33 league appearances each.
With Joao Pedro being one of Brighton's top scorers, tallying 10 goals thus far, his talent has evidently caught the eye of several top-flight English clubs looking to enhance their attacking firepower come the summer transfer window.
The Telegraph reported last week that interest in the South American is on the rise, with the forward netting 30 goals in 70 appearances since his £30million move to the Amex in 2023.
Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly the most keen on Joao Pedro. The Premier League's top two have already been linked with numerous forwards, while Chelsea's current management has spent over £1billion on transfers since taking charge.
The attacker's versatility in forward positions is believed to be attractive to these high-profile clubs. Arsenal, in particular, have long admired Joao Pedro and have reportedly considered signing him in past transfer windows.
Should Brighton decide to cash in, they are in a strong position to negotiate, with the striker contracted to the south coast club until summer 2028.