Liverpool and Newcastle United are reportedly competing for the signature of Joao Pedro after the Brazilian’s impressive 2025/26 campaign helped Brighton finish eighth in the Premier League.
The Reds lifted the title in front of supporters at Anfield for the first time in 35 years on Sunday with some truly beautiful scenes unfolding. The fans bid farewell to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was brought to tears when the emotions of his departure hit after lifting the trophy in front of the Kop end.
There are other farewells that are on their way with Caoimhin Kelleher leaving after a decade with the Reds while Darwin Nunez is leaving after sadly not making the most of his £85m move to the club in 2022.
His exit will open up space in the Liverpool starting XI for a new centre-forward, particularly if Luis Diaz leaves amid heavy media coverage of Barcelona’s desire to sign the Colombian.
That’s where Joao Pedro enters the picture.
Liverpool and Newcastle United competing for £58m Joao Pedro deal
There are a lot of clubs interested in signing Joao Pedro but “Liverpool and Newcastle appear determined to take the lead in the competition for his signature”, reports Spanish outlet Fichajes.
This season, the 23-year-old No.9 has 10 goals and 7 assists but while he is not as prolific as Alexander Isak, for example, he does a lot more than just score.
The report continues, saying: “The €70 million fee reflects the high valuation both clubs place on the player and the importance they place on his signing.”
Finally, the player wants to leave Brighton. Joao Pedro and reportedly will choose between Liverpool and Chelsea. The report says “both clubs are willing to offer not only a good financial offer but also an attractive sporting project to convince the player.”
With Florian Wirtz on the way, Joao Pedro would be a very exciting option with plenty of room to grow
There are some question marks over the player’s attitude with several flare ups on the pitch but if Arne Slot thinks he’s the right fit, it would be exciting to see him link up with Mohamed Salah and imminent new signing Florian Wirtz next season.
Liverpool were the strongest attacking unit this season but they’re about to get a whole lot more clinical with the arrival of Wirtz but Pedro’s freestyle approach to linking midfield to attack will create a lot of space for his teammates.
With Wirtz very reminiscent of Coutingo, Pedro is quite similar to Bobby Firmino so it’s interesting to see the Brighton star in Liverpool’s plans.