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Fabrizio Romano has provided his latest on Joao Pedro and Liverpool interest.
The player’s name has always been tentatively linked to the Anfield club, but it is a big development that now Romano is acknowledging the reports.
The 23-year-old forward made headlines for all the wrong reasons this week when he was notably absent from Brighton’s matchday squad for their 3-2 victory over Liverpool on Monday.
While Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler diplomatically cited “private reasons” for the player’s omission, reliable reports have asserted that Pedro’s absence stemmed from a training ground altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke.
The incident reportedly occurred during a training session in the lead-up to Brighton’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on May 10.
While specific details of the confrontation remain undisclosed, the fact that Van Hecke was selected to start against both Wolves and Liverpool while Pedro was excluded suggests the Brazilian bore greater responsibility for the clash.
Despite these concerns, Fabrizio Romano of GIVEMESPORT has reported that Pedro is expected to depart Brighton this summer, with Liverpool emerging as one of several Premier League giants interested in securing his signature.
The Reds are reportedly “seriously considering” a move for the Brazilian as part of Arne Slot’s squad rebuilding plans having tracked the Brazilian since his Watford days.
Liverpool aren’t alone in their pursuit, with Arsenal and Chelsea also monitoring Pedro’s situation closely78.
Newcastle United have also entered the race, having previously been close to signing the forward before his move to Brighton.
Brighton, known for their shrewd negotiating tactics when selling star players like Marc Cucurella and Moises Caicedo, will not part with Pedro easily.
The Seagulls are expected to demand around £60-70 million for the striker – more than double the £30 million they paid to Watford in 2023
The forward has registered 10 goals and 7 assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this season, establishing himself as Brighton’s joint-top Premier League scorer.
Since arriving at Brighton, Pedro has accumulated an impressive body of work with 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances.
His performances earned him a call-up to the Brazil national team, making his senior international debut in November 2024 against Colombia.
Romano adds:
“Joao has opened the doors to a move and the football industry has received a clear message about it in recent days?
It is one to watch with a big impact offering one more chance in terms of strikers to several clubs.”
While Brighton’s £60 million valuation poses a significant hurdle, Liverpool appear ready to negotiate seriously if they head in that direction.
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