Arsenal are showing an interest in Brighton striker Joao Pedro. This comes amid the absence of other options such as Benjamin Sesko, Nico Williams and Eberechi Eze, who are either out of action for the Premier League giants, or have decided to stay at their respective clubs.
Sources indicate that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar have discussed the possibility of signing Pedro. Eddie Nketiah is close to leaving the Emirates for French club Olympique Marseille after a long spell at Arsenal, where he joined at the age of 15.
The 25-year-old striker has agreed personal terms with the Ligue 1 side and wage talks are ongoing, although there is a gap in valuation. Arsenal will only allow him to leave for the right price as they feel no pressure to sell despite Nketiah's desire for regular first-team action. With the deal to sign Mikel Merino almost complete, talks between Arteta and Edu have focused on possible replacements for Nketiah, with Joao Pedro one of the options.
The 22-year-old forward fulfills the criteria that Arsenal are looking for, young, with high potential and suitable in terms of character. He is expected to integrate well into the squad, joining compatriots Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli. However, it remains uncertain whether Brighton will be willing to let their main striker leave so late in the market. Chairman Tony Bloom is likely to demand a sizeable fee as Arsenal aim to avoid overspending.
Sources suggest the Seagulls would be willing to sell the player for £50million, aiming to make a significant profit on the Brazilian. After sealing a €34.2 million move from Watford to Brighton last summer, Pedro scored 20 goals in all competitions, while also registering three assists.
