Could Joao Pedro Fit In at Liverpool? Temperament Questions Cloud Summer Links
As Liverpool prepare for a crucial summer transfer window under the leadership of Premier League-winning manager Arne Slot, questions are already arising over one of the Reds’ potential attacking targets. According to The Athletic, Brighton striker Joao Pedro was omitted from his side’s recent match-day squad against Liverpool following a training ground “altercation” with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke.
That incident, and the circumstances surrounding it, will no doubt factor heavily into Liverpool’s evaluation of the Brazilian, who has been linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks.
Versatility and Value Make Pedro a Tempting Prospect
Pedro’s appeal is obvious. At just 23 years old, he has registered 10 goals and seven assists in 30 Premier League appearances this season, establishing himself as a dynamic and creative attacking option. His ability to play across the front three – centre-forward, second striker or wide – fits perfectly into Liverpool’s preferred fluid forward setup.
With Luis Díaz, Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo all rotating frequently, Pedro would add depth and flexibility, while also representing a longer-term option as the squad transitions to Slot’s vision. Brighton signed him for £30 million in 2023, and are reportedly asking for north of £60 million – potentially up to £70 million due to his contract running until 2028.
In a market where proven Premier League talent is at a premium, Pedro is an attractive investment, particularly when his age and output are taken into account.
Incident Raises Temperament Red Flags
Yet talent alone rarely tells the full story. According to The Athletic, Pedro was due to return to Brighton’s match-day squad for the game against Liverpool, but his inclusion was scrapped following a “heated confrontation” with defender Jan Paul van Hecke. Manager Fabian Hurzeler explained Pedro’s absence as being for “private reasons,” though the report suggests the fallout from the clash led to his exclusion.
“The fact van Hecke started both games while Pedro remained absent suggests the Brazilian bore greater responsibility,” The Athletic stated.
It’s the latest in a growing pattern of incidents. Earlier this season, Pedro faced accusations of elbowing Brentford’s Yehor Yarmolyuk, and had previously escaped punishment for a high challenge on Ipswich’s Christian Walton. This isn’t a pattern Liverpool will ignore. For a club with a famously harmonious and hard-working dressing room, character can weigh as heavily as technical skill.
Past Absences Against Liverpool Also Noted
Interestingly, this is the third time this season Pedro has missed a fixture against Liverpool. He was unavailable for the two previous meetings due to injury and then missed the May 10 match through suspension. It may be coincidence, but when added to the recent altercation, the absences stand out.
Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Michael Edwards and Julian Ward, are known for deep analysis of both a player’s ability and personality. As they assess targets to strengthen a title-winning side for the Champions League return, off-field behaviour and attitude will be scrutinised as much as on-pitch performance.
Competition for Signature May Raise the Stakes
Liverpool are not alone in their interest. Arsenal and Chelsea are also reportedly keen, with both clubs monitoring Pedro’s situation closely. Brighton, well aware of this competition, will likely stick to their valuation, especially with no financial pressure to sell.
Still, the player’s recent disciplinary concerns could shift the narrative. Clubs will wonder whether Brighton might be tempted to cash in before any behavioural issues overshadow Pedro’s undoubted talent.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Joao Pedro represents something of a paradox. Technically gifted, quick-footed and comfortable across multiple roles in attack, he’s the sort of profile that would slot well into Arne Slot’s attacking system. But the red flag is clear – temperament.
Liverpool are building a team under Slot that prioritises togetherness, pressing intensity and emotional control. After watching Klopp create one of the most unified squads in world football, fans have grown accustomed to seeing players who not only fight for the shirt but respect the team around them.
Would Pedro buy into that? The altercation with van Hecke suggests he might struggle when things don’t go his way. And while passion is welcome, petulance is not. We’ve seen how even brilliant players like Mario Balotelli or Nabil Fekir (almost) never quite fit the culture.
That said, Liverpool’s recruitment team don’t make decisions lightly. If they go after Pedro, fans should trust that extensive background checks have been made. And if Slot believes he can mould the Brazilian into a disciplined attacking force, then perhaps we should be open-minded.
But at £70 million? That’s a huge outlay for a player with baggage. Unless Brighton’s asking price drops or character references from inside Brighton say otherwise, we’d suggest looking elsewhere.
