Joao Pedro stance on Brighton exit revealed amid Newcastle and Chelsea transfer links
Joao Pedro has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea this summer but it appears Newcastle are now leading the chase for the Brighton striker’s signature
Joao Pedro has opened the door to an incredible switch to Chelsea, despite keen interest from Newcastle. The Brazilian forward is seemingly at the centre of a transfer tussle this summer between the two Premier League sides.
Recent reports indicate that Newcastle are intensifying their efforts to lure him to Tyneside as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his attacking options. Chelsea have also been linked with a £50million move this summer.Study Master’s in Business and Management Courses in Malta. Register with GBS for callback1-year master’s course to advance your career in Business. Apply for Upcoming Intake – Request call back today!GBS Malta|
A potential move to Stamford Bridge appears to be gaining traction with Pedro, if teammate Igor Julio at Brighton is to be taken at his word. The defender hinted that Pedro is leaning towards a London move over other options, despite Julio’s personal attempts to convince him to join Liverpool.
“Joao Pedro had already told Brighton some time ago that his desire was to leave, seek new things, take the next step,” Igor told Trivela. “It seems it will be difficult and complicated for him to stay here.
“We have to be honest, the club already knows that. (I’m) very happy for him. He deserves it. He’s been here in England for five years and hasn’t played for a big team yet. It’s his moment, his time, so he can make the best decision and be happy wherever he is.
“He always told me that he really wants to live in London, so I think he will prioritise what comes from there first. I told [Pedro] that he has to think about what he wants from his career. In my opinion, if I were going to a ‘Big Six’ team, I would go to a team that fights for the Premier League, plays in the Champions League and is always in a position to win.
“I would go to a Liverpool team and I think he would fit in perfectly at Liverpool. It’s because I’ve always dreamed of playing for Liverpool and I would go there.”
Pedro, 23, has been a revelation at Brighton, netting 30 goals since his £30million switch from Watford two years ago. He still has three years left on his contract at the Amex Stadium.
Despite rumours of an exit, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler hinted earlier this year that he expects the striker to remain with the Seagulls next season. He said: “Joao is still a young player and there’s still a lot of potential where he will grow, and I’m sure that he will learn from this and come back strong next season. I’m really looking forward to seeing him renewed and reinvigorated at his highest peak for us and that’s all I will say on this.”
