Liverpool ready to battle Chelsea for 28 goal rising star who is dream Jackson backup | OneFootball

Brighton are holding firm over another player who is in demand from other teams in the Premier League.

The Seagulls have made a big business out of developing and selling on talented players, often to Chelsea. And now it seems they’re got another deal brewing. Joao Pedro has taken a while to bed in and show his quality since moving from Watford, but he’s now doing just that.

Brighton paid £30m for him back in 2023, an exceptionally large deal for them, and one paid for in part by some of the hefty chunks of cash Chelsea had handed over for players like Marc Cucurella and Moises Caicedo.

Pedro’s hard-working style has earned him plenty of admirers in the top flight, as well as a call up to the senior Brazil squad.

According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle are all “long term admirers” of the 23 year old, who should only now be coming into his peak. He nagged 24 goals in 109 games for Watford, and has significantly upped his scoring rate on the South Coast – he’s got 28 in 65 for Fabian Hurzeler’s team.

Chelsea could be warned off by tough Brighton stance

Joao Pedro of Brighton and Hove Albion is a target of Chelsea (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)

A hard working striker at the right age with an eye for goal and plenty of Premier League pedigree? It sounds like a dream move for Chelsea, the only question is what the price tag will be. The Blues have tried to change their model from just buying Brighton success stories for just this reason. They’re in a strong bargaining position, especially now it’s been confirmed there is no release clause in his contract.

Everyone has their price, but given their strong bargaining position, it’s hard to see Chelsea being able to pay the money necessary to change their mind.