Fears grow that Liverpool will let IDEAL N09 slip through their grasp

Liverpool are set for a shakeup in the centre-forward position at the end of the season.

Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez are among the players who the club are content to let leave - provided their asking prices are met.

The Reds have been linked with a host of new strikers ahead of the summer transfer window opening - like Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko.

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One other name previously on the list was that of Joao Pedro - the Brighton 23-year-old who looks to be set for bigger and better things as he settles into life as Brazil’s new No9.

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It was reported just before the winter transfer window opened that the former Fluminense striker was of interest to the Merseysiders - with their interest stretching back to his days as a youth player.

His career took a different path - first to Watford and then to the south coast in 2023 - but it was reckoned that Liverpool could be back. However, their search for a new starting centre-forward could end up leading them far from Brighton’s door.

“Brighton are keen to drum up interest in their own Brazilian, Joao Pedro, and his name has floated around as one who could move on this summer – but there is nothing to suggest Liverpool would be one of the interested parties at this stage,” reports reliable Liverpool journalist Lewis Steele in the Daily Mail.

Why aren't Liverpool in for Joao Pedro?

That appears to settle that. But we’re left with one lingering question. If Liverpool are NOT in for Joao Pedro… how come?

He would appear to fit the bill perfectly for the Reds. At 23, he’s got room to grow and would not break the bank wages-wise. Although under contract until 2028, it’s been reported that Brighton might well listen to bids starting at around £42 million.

While not a bargain, that seems a reasonable price for a Premier League-proven forward with eight goals and six assists in 23 top-flight matches this season.

He went into the international window in great form, prompting his call-up from Dorival Junior. Joao Pedro closed out the period with three goals and an assist in his last four games before jetting out.

He’s certainly not a penalty-box No9; instead, his is an all-round game. In fact he’s more likely to be found loitering in the final third and drifting out to the left wing.

According to FBREF, he has plenty in common with Liverpool’s other striking targets - either confirmed or reported.

Of their top 10 most similar players to Joao Pedro, FIVE have been linked to Liverpool in recent windows. Top is Charles De Ketelaere while Marcus Thuram, Omar Marmoush, Hugo Ekitike and Mohamed Amoura also feature.

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There is lots to like about Joao Pedro; his output, his style, his age, and it’s a wonder Liverpool are playing down their interest.

The club have seen several targets opt for moves elsewhere in recent seasons - including Marmoush in January. It would be an error to let Joao Pedro slip through their grasp.

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