‘Joao Pedro’s Brighton fallout could see EFL side pocket windfall’
Brighton’s Joao Pedro has been linked with a move away from the south coast, and one of his former sides could profit from the move.
The Brazilian has been at Brighton since the summer of 2023, and has scored ten goals in 27 league games this season.
However, the forward was a surprise exclusion from Fabian Hurzeler’s squad as the Seagulls beat already-crowned champions Liverpool 3-2 at the Amex.
After the game, it was revealed that Brighton manager Hurzeler left Pedro out because of a training ground bust-up with centre back Jan Paul Van Hecke, which has led to rumours of a permanent departure.
Pedro set for move away
As a result of the disciplinary issues, the whispers linking Chelsea with Pedro have grown louder, with the 23-year-old reportedly telling friends and family that he wants to move to West London.
Enzo Maresca’s side are crying out for some more attacking talent in their ranks, and the Brazilian is just one name on the Blues’ shortlist.
However, if Pedro is to move in the summer, one of his former sides will profit due to a sell-on clause.
The Watford Observer’s (22 May) Andre French reported that Watford may be in line to receive around £4million from Brighton, if reports of a £70m transfer fee are correct.
Details of Pedro’s move between the Hornets and the Seagulls were never revealed, but even if the sell-on-fee was as low as 10%, the championship side would still receive a multi-million-pound bonus.
Chelsea must be wary of Pedro
Football Insider Verdict
As a player, Pedro is undoubtedly fantastic, and someone who would add talent and quality to Chelsea’s misfiring frontline.
The Brighton forward has managed 16 goal contributions this season in the Premier League, as the Seagulls hold onto faint hopes of reaching European football.
| Games | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
| 27 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 1 |
However, the problem for Enzo Maresca comes in the form of the Brazilian’s attitude, and how that would affect the Stamford Bridge dressing room.
We have seen in recent days how egos can destroy team spirit, with Alejandro Garnacho, who is also linked to Chelsea, being a prime example.
The Blues must ensure that if they do purchase the likes of Pedro and Garnacho that they keep them under control and don’t let them affect the morale of the rest of the squad.