According to a recent report by Globoesporte (via the Liverpool Echo), Liverpool have stolen a march on Watford to secure the services of Fluminense wonderkid Joao Pedro during the summer transfer window. The same source has also claimed that the Brazilian club agreed on a deal to sell their prized asset to the Hornets last summer, but the Reds have since joined the race and registered their interest for the Serie A centre-forward ahead of a potential move in the summer.
Globoesporte also goes on to mention that the agreed deal with Javi Gracia’s side is not binding due to Pedro’s young age, but Watford will be due compensation if the striker doesn’t end up moving to Vicarage Road in this off-season.
Joao Pedro’s Recent Emergence In The Brazilian Serie A
Pedro came through the youth ranks of Fluminense before finally getting his chance to feature in the Brazilian Serie A this season. The 17-year-old forward scored two goals on his first-team debut after coming on as a substitute against Cruzeiro last week. The Brazilian striker went on to claim a hattrick on Friday when he put three past Atletico Nacional while also creating an assist in that game.
He has made a remarkable start to life at the senior level, but at 17, Pedro’s game still has a lot of room for improvement. There is no doubt about the Brazilian attacker’s talent, but a move to an elite club like Liverpool could put too much pressure on his young shoulders.
What Will The Brazilian Whizkid Bring To Merseyside?
Pedro is versatile enough to play not only as a centre-forward but also as a left-sided winger as well. He boasts decent pace and is full of tricks inside the opposition penalty box. The South American starlet has also proven that he can be a lethal finisher in front of goal.
However, the jury is still out on whether he can cope with the physical and high intensity of Premier League football. Pedro’s addition will undoubtedly bolster Jurgen Klopp’s attacking options at Anfield in the future. Roberto Firmino can also act as a mentor for the young Brazilian if he ends up making a switch to Merseyside.
Joao Pedro: A Prospect For The Future?
Pedro has all the skillset to be a world-class forward as long as he can keep improving his game on the pitch. Klopp’s style of play will suit him as he has enough pace to lead the line for the Reds in the years to come.
