Alious
Joao Pedro looks set to leave Brighton & Hove Albion before the end of the summer, with Newcastle United reportedly leading the race for his signature. But the 23-year-old Brazilian’s next move may not be as straightforward as expected.
Newcastle are said to be in discussions with Brighton over a deal that could reach £60 million, according to *The Telegraph*, and Pedro is thought to be open to the transfer. Yet new comments from one of his Brighton teammates suggest the striker may have his sights set elsewhere — possibly the capital.
Speaking to *Trivela*, fellow Brazilian and Seagulls defender Igor Julio revealed Pedro’s intentions have been clear for some time: “Joao Pedro had already told Brighton he wanted to leave, to seek new opportunities and take the next step,” Igor said, confirming that the forward communicated this desire via video call with the club.
The timing is significant — with the World Cup on the horizon, Pedro is eager to elevate both his club and international profile. “It looks very difficult for him to stay,” Igor admitted. “He’s been in England for five years but hasn’t played for a big club yet. Now it’s his time to move forward and be happy.”
While Newcastle may seem an ideal destination — boasting Champions League football and a progressive project — Igor hinted that Pedro could prioritise lifestyle and location over sporting context.
“He told me he really wants to live in London,” Igor disclosed, adding that Pedro may give precedence to Premier League clubs based in the capital.
This potentially reopens the door for clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham, both of which have been loosely linked with Pedro in recent weeks. Chelsea in particular would represent a move to a high-profile club — albeit one with a bloated frontline — but the London allure may still prove decisive.
Pedro’s teammate also mentioned admiration for Liverpool, but emphasised that Pedro is weighing all options carefully: “I told him to think about what he wants for his career. If I were him, I’d join a team that’s in the Champions League, competes for titles, and plays attractive football.”
The situation mirrors other high-profile sagas this summer — such as Dean Huijsen’s decision to wait for Real Madrid — and suggests Pedro may bide his time for the right offer, even if it means delaying a Newcastle switch.
For now, nothing is final, but the combination of ambition, World Cup stakes, and a desire to live in London makes Joao Pedro’s future one of the transfer window’s most intriguing subplots.
Alious
