Arsenal are the latest Premier League club to show an interest in Brighton forward Joao Pedro, according to reports.
The likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Aston Villa and Newcastle have been mentioned as potential suitors for the Brazilian in recent weeks.
Most Read on Gooner News
However, The Sun claim that the Gunners are also “considering entering” the race to sign Pedro, who is expected to be sold if a team meets his asking price this summer.
The 23-year-old scored 10 goals and provided 7 assists in 30 appearances for Brighton last season, and his ability to play in multiple different positions makes him an attractive option.
How much will Pedro cost?
It is believed that the Seagulls are demanding upwards of £70m for the striker, which is more than double the fee they paid Watford at the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign.
Of course, with so many teams circling Pedro, there is confidence that at least one club will stump up the cash. It remains to be seen whether Mikel Arteta’s side would pay that much for him.
Arsenal need to strengthen their options up front
As well as bringing in a new No.9, it is believed Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are hoping to reinforce numbers out wide. In recent days, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has been mentioned as a potential target.
However, the Cameroon international is much more comfortable on the right wing, while the Gunners’ main weakness is on the opposite flank, with Gabriel Martinelli (in particular) struggling in terms of his goal output.
The club could potentially look to sign another Brazilian to provide competition. Pedro played most of his football for Watford from the left wing, while he can also provide cover as a 9 or No.10 if needed.
There are other potential targets who could fulfil the same function, such as Rodrygo, but there are still doubts over whether the Real Madrid star is a realistic option.
Vote for Arsenal’s player of the season here. You can also keep up to date via our Facebook page and follow us on X.