Can João Pedro Be Liverpool’s Long-Term Successor to Firmino? | OneFootball

João Pedro – The Striker Liverpool Should Target This Summer

As Liverpool approaches a pivotal summer transfer window, the search for a new striker is intensifying. Darwin Núñez’s inconsistency in front of goal has left doubts about his long-term future at Anfield, while both Luis Díaz and Diogo Jota could be sold to facilitate a rebuild. With Arne Slot stepping in and Michael Edwards returning to oversee recruitment, finding a centre-forward capable of linking play, pressing intelligently, and delivering in front of goal is crucial.

One player who fits that profile is Brighton’s João Pedro. The 23-year-old Brazilian has been one of the standout forwards in the Premier League this season, blending creativity, technical quality, and clinical finishing. If Liverpool is looking for a forward in the mould of Roberto Firmino, João Pedro could be the ideal signing. With a reported price tag of €70 million, he would represent both immediate quality and long-term value.

João Pedro – Player Profile

Club: Brighton & Hove Albion

Nationality: Brazil

Age: 23 years old

Date of Birth: September 26, 2001

Position: Forward (Centre / Left)

Height: 1.82m

Preferred Foot: Right

2024/25 Appearances: 37 games

2024/25 Goals & Assists: 18 / 6

Passing Accuracy: 82%

Dribbles Completed per 90: 2.4

Contract Expiry: June 30, 2028

Market Value: €65 million

Potential Transfer Fee: €70 million

A Forward Built for Liverpool’s System

João Pedro isn’t a traditional number nine. He thrives as a link-up forward, dropping deep to connect play, pressing with intensity, and creating space for others. His playing style is reminiscent of Roberto Firmino—intelligent movement, technical excellence, and a relentless work ethic off the ball.

Brighton’s system under Roberto De Zerbi has allowed him to develop into a complete attacker. He can operate as a central striker or drift wide when needed, making him an ideal fit for Slot’s tactical approach. His ability to combine effectively with midfielders and wingers would complement the likes of Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, ensuring fluidity in Liverpool’s attacking play.

Clinical but Creative

Liverpool have struggled with inefficiency in front of goal at times, particularly with Núñez missing high-value chances. João Pedro offers a more refined finishing ability, as shown by his 18 goals this season. While he isn’t an out-and-out poacher, his composure in the box and ability to score from various situations make him a genuine goal threat.

Beyond his finishing, his six assists highlight his creative side. His 82% passing accuracy shows that he can retain possession in tight spaces and bring others into play. With Slot expected to emphasize technical proficiency, João Pedro’s ability to combine quick interplay with intelligent movement would make him a seamless addition.

Pressing Machine with Tactical Intelligence

Liverpool’s best-attacking setups have always relied on forwards who defend from the front. João Pedro excels in this department, ranking among the top Premier League forwards for pressing intensity. He knows when to engage when to block passing lanes, and when to force mistakes from opposition defenders.

Slot’s system will require a high defensive work rate from attacking players, particularly in transition moments. João Pedro’s blend of energy, tactical awareness, and ball-winning ability makes him a natural fit for a pressing-heavy setup, something Liverpool have lacked since Firmino’s departure.

Smart, Homegrown Investment for the Future

At 23, João Pedro is entering his prime years. While €70 million is a significant investment, it represents market value for a player proven in the Premier League and capable of elevating Liverpool’s frontline. Crucially, he also qualifies as homegrown, adding extra value given the squad registration rules in both the Premier League and Champions League.

With Díaz and Jota potentially departing, Liverpool must ensure they bring in a forward who not only scores goals but also enhances the overall system. João Pedro ticks every box—he’s dynamic, intelligent, versatile, and proven at the highest level.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Must Act Decisively

Brighton are not a club that sells cheaply, but they also recognize when the right deal is on the table. João Pedro’s stock is rising, and with other European clubs monitoring his progress, Liverpool must move quickly if they want to secure his signature.

If Slot and Edwards are looking for a forward who brings technical quality, pressing intensity, and goal contributions, João Pedro is the answer. He wouldn’t just replace Núñez—he would elevate Liverpool’s attack to a new level, making the Reds a more efficient, fluid, and dangerous side in 2025 and beyond.