AliousBrighton’s Igor Julio Predicts Joao Pedro’s Exit, Names Unexpected London Club as Top Choice for Liverpool and Newcastle Target
Brighton’s Brazilian defender Igor Julio is convinced that his teammate Joao Pedro will depart the Amex Stadium this summer, with a surprising preference for a London-based club over heavyweights like Liverpool and Newcastle. Speaking to South American journalist Diogo Magri of Trivela, Julio revealed, “Joao told me he’s ready to move on, to chase new challenges and take his career to the next level. Honestly, it’s looking tough for him to stay—Brighton knows his intentions.”
The 23-year-old striker, who joined Brighton from Watford for £30m in 2023, has a contract until June 2028 but has caught the eye of top clubs with his 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances. Despite scoring 10 Premier League goals last season, Pedro’s relationship with Brighton soured after a red card in a 4-2 defeat to Brentford, resulting in a three-match ban, followed by a training ground altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke, which led to his exclusion from the final two matches under head coach Fabian Hurzeler.
With Brighton poised to demand £60m-£100m for Pedro, interest from Newcastle, Liverpool, and Arsenal has intensified. Newcastle, set to compete in the Champions League next season, are pushing hard, but Julio believes Pedro’s heart is set on London, potentially favoring Arsenal or Chelsea. “I told him to think about his career goals,” Julio said. “For me, a Big Six club like Liverpool, always competing for titles and in the Champions League, would be ideal. I think he’d thrive there—it’s my dream club, too. But Joao’s always said he wants to live in London, so he’ll likely prioritize offers from there.”
Julio, who moved to Brighton from Fiorentina for £15m in 2023, added, “Joao’s been in England for five years and hasn’t played for a top club yet. This is his moment to make a big move and choose what makes him happy.” As the summer transfer window approaches, Pedro’s next step could reshape the forward lines of one of England’s elite clubs, with London calling louder than Anfield or St. James’ Park.
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