OGC Nice’s Evann Guessand considered as João Pedro replacement at Brighton | OneFootball

Brighton and Hove Albion are preparing for life without João Pedro (23). As per Sacha Tavolieri, the Brazilian is the subject of intense interest from Chelsea, who are in the market for a new No.9 this summer. The Independent, The Athletic, and RMC Sport all understand that Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké (22) is a target for the Blues.

However, should it be €90m-rated Pedro that makes the move to Stamford Bridge, it could lead Brighton to bring in OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand (23). The Ivory Coast international, who came through the academy at Nice, has had a breakthrough season leading the line, as Le Gym secured qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League qualifiers.

Franck Haise has already gone public in expressing doubt regarding Guessand’s future. Given the financial crisis gripping French football, he has said that the club will have to sell to buy and their No.29 is the most bankable asset in their squad. Should Pedro leave, Guessand would be Brighton’s priority, Tavolieri understands, although they could face competition from Premier League rivals.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle