Liverpool Could Sign Another Roberto Firmino as $68m Arne Slot’s “Priority” for 2025 Makes Perfect Sense
Liverpool are reportedly targeting a player seen as the next Roberto Firmino, with a move that could align perfectly with Arne Slot’s plans for 2025.
At present, Liverpool’s squad has very few areas of concern. With Arne Slot’s side excelling in both the Premier League and the Champions League, the team is in an enviable position.
Despite their current strength, there are a few medium-term uncertainties in Liverpool’s forward line. According to the Brazilian outlet UOL, Liverpool have identified Brighton forward Joao Pedro as a key transfer target for 2025. The Reds are said to be scouting the market for potential number nine options to strengthen their attacking depth.
The move would make sense, particularly with Darwin Núñez still inconsistent and Diogo Jota frequently sidelined by injuries. Pedro’s playing style would make him a natural fit for Liverpool’s system.
At 23 years old, Pedro is at the perfect stage in his career to take on a bigger challenge. This season, under Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, he has shown the type of skillset that Liverpool value.
He is excellent at linking play, highly effective off the ball, and has started contributing consistently in front of goal. So far, he has registered four goals and three assists in nine appearances.
Pedro’s defensive contributions also set him apart. Among forwards and attacking midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, he ranks in the 90th percentile for tackles and the 97th for interceptions.
His passing and creativity metrics are similarly impressive, placing him in the high 80s to 90s percentile range. These qualities suggest that Pedro has the potential to develop into a player similar to Roberto Firmino.
According to soccer analytics site FBref, Pedro’s style is comparable to current Liverpool stars Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo. Both players are known for their off-the-ball movement and growing influence in the attacking third under Slot, indicating that Pedro could fit seamlessly into the team.
Brighton signed Pedro from Watford in 2023 for $38 million (£30m/€36m) and would likely demand a significantly higher fee if they were to sell.
Known for maximizing profits on player sales, Brighton would likely hold out for a premium price, as Pedro’s contract does not appear to include a release clause like the one that facilitated Alexis Mac Allister’s transfer.
Uncertainty remains about how Arne Slot envisions the number nine role, as Nunez, Jota, and Diaz have all been deployed in that position under his management, each bringing a unique interpretation to it.
However, if Liverpool are seeking a more well-rounded player who can link play effectively while also delivering in front of goal, Joao Pedro should be a leading candidate.
“He was the best player on the pitch,” former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi said of Pedro – valued at at least $68m (£54m/€65m), according to Fichajes – after he netted twice against Spurs last season. “He played another incredible game. I am really pleased with his improvement in mentality and attitude.
“In the defensive phase, he defended like a center-back for 90 minutes. He is becoming a top player. I hope in the next year to work with him, but it will be very tough.”
De Zerbi may have left Brighton last summer and is no longer working with Joao Pedro, but his prediction that the Brazilian will eventually join a top club seems destined to be fulfilled.
If Liverpool’s interest in Pedro is genuine, pursuing his signature would be a logical move, even though it is unlikely to come at a low cost.
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