In a recent report, Leeds Live stated that Leeds United could rekindle their interest in Watford forward Joao Pedro this January. It has been mentioned that the Whites might reignite their interest in the Brazilian talent.
Pedro’s Impressive Start To This Championship Campaign
Pedro has made a good start to this campaign as he has produced a few influential displays as the focal point of Watford’s attack. The Brazilian talent has banged in two goals and picked up a couple of assists in seven matches for the Hornets this season across all competitions.
The Ribeirao Preto-born sensation has given a good account of himself in the final third based on his average of 2.0 shots, 1.9 key passes and 3.3 dribbles per game in the EFL Championship. However, he needs to work on improving his ball distribution as he has only completed 70.4% of his attempted passes in the second tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
The 20-year-old’s current contract at Vicarage Road is set to expire in the summer of 2025. Hence, the Whites would have to work hard in agreeing on a fee for him in January or at the end of this campaign.
Is Pedro A Good Option For Leeds United Boss Jesse Marsch?
Pedro is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make some clever runs with the ball in behind the opponent’s backline. He is proficient at creating space for himself to get a few shots in on target and can create some inviting chances for his teammates on the attacking third of the pitch. Pedro is primarily a centre-forward but can also play as a winger on the left flank or as an attacking midfielder if needed.
At 20, Pedro has the potential to become one of the best players in his position someday. Hence, he would be a good, long-term option for Leeds United to consider next year.
We can expect Pedro to inject more quality into Jesse Marsch‘s defensive department at Elland Road. He will no doubt increase competition for places within the Yorkshire club’s match-day squad.
Thus, it makes sense for the Whites to seal a move for Pedro when the transfer window commences once again at the start of next year as he will help them steer clear of relegation trouble in the coming seasons. Furthermore, Marsch could unlock the best out of him if he can adapt to Premier League football well.