Brighton will head into the 2023/24 campaign with one of Europe's most wanted strikers in their ranks, according to reports.
The Seagulls have moved quickly to beat a host of clubs to the signing of highly-rated Brazilian forward Joao Pedro, who has impressed for Championship side Watford since his arrival from Fluminense in 2020.
Pedro, who has scored 11 goals in 35 games for the Hornets this season, is said to have agreed personal terms with Roberto De Zerbi's side ahead of the summer transfer window.
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The announcement will be made official soon, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, with a club-record fee 'close to £30 million' being mentioned.
Brighton's record signing is said to be Enock Mwepu, who signed for the Premier League club in July 2021 from Austrian side RB Salzburg for a reported £20.7 million.
But a deal to sign Pedro will smash those numbers as the Seagulls continue to make a statement in the transfer market.
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This season, Brighton's success in the recruitment department has been on show for the world to see. Kaoru Mitoma, Pervis Estupinan, Julio Enciso and Evan Ferguson have all impressed on the big stage.
And another summer signing, Argentine playmaker Facundo Buonanotte, scored on first Premier League start in their 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Wednesday – another potential look into the future.
Newcastle were also said to be interested in bringing Joao Pedro to the Premier League.
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The Magpies have been monitoring his progress at Watford throughout the season after they failed in a bid to sign the 21-year-old Brazilian last summer.
But it appears Pedro, who only signed a long-term deal at Vicarage Road last September, will play for Brighton next season as they try and build on their impressive form during the 2022/23 campaign.
Kwizly Quiz
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Here's how social media reacted to the transfer news.
One said: "I’m obviously gutted that Joao Pedro is leaving #WatfordFC, but Brighton is genuinely the best place for him to develop as a player. They have a brilliant manager and great players who will only make him get better. Wish him nothing but the best at Brighton."
A second wrote: "Joao Pedro’s gonna be a superstar. Brighton have picked up a superb signing there, but happy he’s going to a really good club."
A third added: "This is such a good signing. He still has a lot to improve but he's clearly got the talent and he'll be class under De Zerbi."
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Thoughts on the deal?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Watford, Brighton And Hove Albion, Newcastle United, Transfers
