Although nothing has yet been signed, the chances that Joao Pedro will soon become a Brighton player have grown today as the announcement of the Watford line-up showed he’s not travelled to the north-east.

Head coach Chris Wilder has said there is no injury or illness involved, and he felt it was right to leave the player behind.

The Hornets have been tight-lipped since stories about the possible transfer emerged on Thursday, other than to say they had no comment to make.

The Watford Observer understands that conversations with Brighton about Pedro started after Watford’s potential participation in the Championship play-offs were mathematically ended by defeat at Hull last Saturday.

The two clubs managed to continue their discussions under the radar and although it’s understood the player and his representatives have agreed terms, the two clubs are still believed to be negotiating.

It’s almost certain the stories that have appeared have emanated from Pedro’s representatives, as both clubs are adamant they have not said a word.

In the summer similar stories about Pedro joining Newcastle popped up in exactly the same places, and there were even mocked up pictures of him wearing a Toon shirt as it was reported the transfer would be announced.

Of course, that never happened and so while there is definitely a high likelihood that Pedro will join the impressive south-coast club, reports an announcement was imminent on Thursday or Friday have been wide of the mark.

Talking about Pedro’s absence today, Wilder said: "It's been a strange week for João, with plenty going on, so we felt it was right to leave him behind this week. There's no injury involved.

"He's a great lad and, as for next weekend, let's see what happens."

Brighton boss Robert De Zerbi was asked about Joao Pedro yesterday and said: “He is a big, big player but I don’t know if it’s close or not.

“He’s a great player. I think we are a very good team. We can improve improve but it’s not the right moment to speak too much about the transfer market.”

The suggestion is that Brighton’s offer would break their current transfer fee record, which was £20m for Adam Webster from Bristol City in August 2019.

Pedro joined Watford from Fluminense in January 2020 although the Hornets had signed him earlier than that.

The 21-year-old has gone on to become a fan favourite and also captained the side this season.

He’s scored 24 times in 109 appearance, and this season is Watford’s top scorer with 11 goals in 35 outings.