Arsenal have reportedly joined Liverpool in the race for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro.
The young Brazilian has made an impressive start to the 2024-25 campaign at the focal point of the Seagulls' attack, scoring four goals and providing three assists across nine Premier League contests.
As Pedro thrives on the South coast, Mikel Arteta's Gunners are enduring some slip-ups at the top end of the pitch, only managing a 1-1 draw at London rivals Fulham on Sunday afternoon.
Despite having 10 shots on target, Arsenal were unable to convert enough chances at Craven Cottage for victory, with a second-half William Saliba goal rescuing a point.
Since stepping up from Championship outfit Watford during the summer of 2023, Pedro has scored 24 goals across 49 matches for Brighton, including six strikes in as many contests during last season's Europa League.
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Arsenal, Liverpool to battle in January for £54m Pedro?
According to Spanish publication Fichajes, two Premier League giants are preparing to battle it out for the services of Brighton man Pedro in 2025.
The report claims that Arsenal have entered the race for the 23-year-old, who is continuing to blossom on the South coast under the tutelage of Fabian Hurzeler.
It is understood that the Gunners are willing to fork out up to £54m for the signature of the attacker as the North London club look to add the missing piece to their title charge.
Arteta's troops will face significant competition for the Brazilian, though, with league leaders Liverpool said to be keen on the Brighton forward.
It is believed that the Reds have a "strong interest" in Pedro, who has been added to Arne Slot's list of potential New Year incomings ahead of the January window.
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Liverpool's reservations amid Pedro talk
Sitting four points clear at the summit of the Premier League standings, it is hard to argue that Liverpool are in desperate need of significant reinforcements in January.
However, the Reds are supposedly unhappy with the performances of Darwin Nunez, with the Merseyside club said to be targeting replacements for the polarising forward.
At 23 years of age, Pedro would have time to develop into a fully-fledged star at Anfield, while also possessing the ability to make an immediate impact this season.
Operating with Kai Havertz at the focal point of their attack, Arsenal are no doubt in greater need of a central striker during the winter trading point.
Carter White
