Liverpool intend to make an opening transfer bid for Brighton striker Joao Pedro, who is willing to join the Reds.
The 23-year-old has 27 goals for the Seagulls since his £30 million move from Watford in the summer of 2023, and he is now enjoying a purple patch, having scored in each of his past three games.
Liverpool considering Joao Pedro transfer offer
According to sources close to Empire of the Kop, LFC regard the Brazil international as a potential replacement for Darwin Nunez (who has been linked with a move away from Anfield) as they look to improve their offensive options.
Liverpool’s managers love Pedro’s versatility, since he can play as a centre forward, winger, and second striker.
The Reds intend to test Brighton’s commitment with an initial bid of €50 million (£42 million) for the 23-year-old, who is open to joining a strong Premier League team such as Arne Slot’s side.
Although it is known that negotiating with the Sussex club can be difficult, the striker’s transferability may be determined by whether or not the Seagulls qualify for Europe and whether they can afford to turn down a big-money offer for their number 9.
Liverpool are unlikely to have a free run at Pedro, though, as he’s also attracting attention from Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.
Joao Pedro could be a smart investment for Liverpool if they can’t get Isak
The Reds continue to be highly associated with Alexander Isak, with David Ornstein confirming their interest in the Newcastle striker in recent days. However, with the Swede possibly commanding a £150m transfer fee, FSG might yet be compelled to examine more afforable alternatives.
Pedro may fit that criteria for less than a third of the price suggested for the Magpies’ striker, and the Brazilian has shown that he can score frequently in the Premier League. He also scored six goals in as many Europa League games during Brighton’s first European season in 2023/24.
In addition to his goal totals, the 23-year-old’s underlying performance stats stand out, and he may be a wise investment if Liverpool signs him.
According to FBref, he ranks among the top 10% of forwards in Europe’s five major leagues over the last year in a variety of categories, including assists, progressive passes and carries, and successful take-ons per 90 minutes, as well as the top 15% in pass completion and shot-creating actions per game.
Two years ago, Brighton accepted an initial £35 million (possibly increasing to £55 million) offer from the Reds for Alexis MacAllister. Could FSG persuade the Seagulls to sell another prized asset, Pedro, during the offseason?
