Brighton moved swiftly to capture the signature of Joao Pedro as they were aware of interest in the player from home and abroad.

Last summer Newcastle very publicly expressed their interest in the 21-year-old but what was reported as a done-deal never materialised, although the North-East club were known to be keen to try again this summer.

In recent months Pedro has been linked with AC Milan, but Brighton nipped in ahead of the queue to get a player they had wanted for some time.

The Seagulls’ Technical Director David Weir said: "Joao has been a long-term target of ours, and he has also attracted a lot of interest from across Europe.

"So, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with a key target for the club ahead of the summer window opening, and it is great for Joao that he can focus on the new season, with his immediate future settled.

"He's a brilliant young talent, technically very good, quick and with an eye for goal. He will complement our existing forward line very well. He also has settled well here, with good experience of both the Premier League and Championship and more than 100 games for Watford.

"We are really looking forward to starting work with him in pre-season, here in the UK and when we travel to the United States for the Premier League Summer Series."

The departure of Pedro may be the first but it’s unlikely to be the last Watford player to exit the club this summer, with everything pointing towards a major rebuild of the squad.

However, unlike last year when stories surrounding both Pedro and Ismaila Sarr dragged on through the entire transfer window, this announcement means an end to rumours and the ability for all involved to get on with other matters.

“It can be a surprise to no-one that João Pedro leaves us now for the Premier League,” said the Watford’s Technical Director Ben Manga.

“Supporters will understand this agreement is right for all involved. This early action allows us to plan an effective transfer window as we seek to build a competitive team for next season.

“The transfer happening so soon allows us to start the important work for this summer transfer window.

“To announce this news now will give our supporters a chance to reflect on Joao Pedro’s time here since January 2020, so everyone can be ready to say goodbye and good luck.”