Arsenal eyes £70m Joao Pedro despite recent training clash at Brighton

Arsenal is actively pursuing Brighton striker Joao Pedro, with the club reportedly valuing the Brazil international at £70 million. The Gunners are seeking a new forward after scoring 17 fewer goals than 2024-25 champions Liverpool, making Pedro a prime target amid competition from Newcastle, Liverpool, and Aston Villa.

Pedro, 23, has been prolific since joining Brighton from Watford in 2023, netting 30 goals and providing 10 assists in 70 appearances. Brighton, who acquired him for £35 million two years ago, stand to make a significant profit.

Despite his on-field success, Pedro recently made headlines for a training-ground altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke. Brighton's head coach minimized the incident, stating, “With Joao, we had a small issue in training, a type which isn’t uncommon from time to time at all football clubs.”

Arsenal's interest in Pedro reflects their urgent need to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season, as they look to close the gap on top scorers. The competition for his signature underscores his rising profile in the Premier League.

“A new striker is considered a must for Arsenal this summer,” sources say, highlighting the club's strategic focus on strengthening their frontline.

With multiple clubs vying for Pedro, Arsenal faces a challenging transfer window, but securing the forward could be pivotal for their ambitions.

Arsenal is eyeing Brighton's Joao Pedro, valued at £70 million, as a key summer signing amid competition from Newcastle, Liverpool, and Aston Villa. Pedro, who scored 30 goals in 70 appearances, recently clashed with a teammate in training, but Brighton coach downplayed the incident.