Liverpool to bid for IDEAL No9 after asking price slashed

Liverpool are planning big upgrades at centre forward in the summer transfer window.

It’s been a difficult season for both Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, even if both can now count themselves as Premier League champions.

READ MORE: Reds open talks for in demand Premier League striker

Jota, 28, has experienced significant injury disruption once again and his touch in front of goal also seems to have deserted him.

READ MORE: Liverpool must sell star this summer to avoid EMBARRASSING €100m loss

Nunez, meanwhile, has failed to win over Arne Slot. He’s scored just five Premier League goals this season with Liverpool ready to accept offers on the Uruguayan.

If sporting director Richard Hughes manages to get both players off the books then it will add potentially £100m to the summer transfer fund as well as free up plenty of space in the wage bill.

Liverpool bidding for striker this summer

It’s no secret that the Reds are chasing a No9 - with several contenders linked. Striker is shaping up to be a priority position in the summer window and Liverpool have now been tipped to go back in for an old Michael Edwards favourite.

Liverpool have had their eye on Joao Pedro since he was a teenager, with the Brazilian embarking on an adventure in English football first with Watford and then Brighton.

The 23-year-old cost the Seagulls around £30m when he signed in summer 2023 but there are indications that he will be sold this summer.

A few weeks ago it was speculated that Joao Pedro would go for something in the region of £100m but if the latest reports are to be believed then Liverpool will get a massive discount on the Brazil international.

Joao Pedro valued at £60m

“The Premier League champions are seriously contemplating a move for the Brazilian striker,” reads a report in TEAMtalk. “With his contract running until 2028, the Seagulls could demand a fee exceeding £60 million.

“Pedro has emerged as a prime target for Arne Slot’s side, who are looking to bolster their attacking options amid uncertainties surrounding their current forward line.

“Pedro’s versatility, work rate, and proven Premier League pedigree make him an ideal candidate to help Liverpool’s ambitions in the 2025-26 season.”

Nominally a centre forward, Joao Pedro enjoys roving in the final third, often dropping deep and out wide to create chances.

“Pedro’s ability to operate as a central striker, second striker, or even from wide positions aligns perfectly with Slot’s fluid tactical system,” the report continues.

Liverpool to tie up Joao Pedro deal soon

With Jeremie Frimpong close to completing his move from Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool are moving fast to get players in during the window.

And they will waste no time when it comes to tying up a deal for Joao Pedro, with talks expected in the next seven days.

“Liverpool are prepared to act decisively, possibly initiating talks as early as next week to secure Pedro’s signature for next summer,” the report reads.

“Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Michael Edwards, has been tracking Pedro for years, dating back to his Watford days.”

READ MORE: Who is next in line for a MEGA money contract at Anfield?

This season Joao Pedro has got 10 goals and six assists in 27 Premier League outings. The Merseysiders will get an up close and personal look at him when they play Brighton in the Premier League on Monday.